This book is a comprehensive collection of plays by a renowned Irish poet and playwright. The works encompass a wide range of themes and styles, from the mythological and the symbolic to the realistic and contemporary. The plays are known for their lyrical language, complex characters, and exploration of Irish identity and mythology. They offer a profound and nuanced understanding of human nature, society, and the spiritual world.

"Tarry Flynn" is a poignant and humorous coming-of-age novel set in rural Ireland. The story follows the life of Tarry Flynn, a young and dreamy farmer who struggles to fit into the conservative society of his small village. As he navigates through the complexities of love, religion, and societal expectations, Tarry's vivid imagination and poetic soul provide a refreshing perspective on the challenges of rural life in mid-20th century Ireland.

The book is a modern translation of an ancient Irish epic that recounts the legendary tale of the Táin Bó Cúailnge, or "The Cattle Raid of Cooley." It centers on the hero Cú Chulainn, who single-handedly defends the kingdom of Ulster against the invading forces of Queen Medb of Connacht, who seeks to capture a prized bull. The narrative weaves together themes of heroism, loyalty, and the supernatural, while vividly portraying the rich tapestry of early Irish mythology and culture.

**Hereafter** by Vona Groarke tells the story of Ellen O'Hara, a young Irish immigrant who arrives in New York at the end of the 19th century. Facing prejudice and limited job opportunities, Ellen works as a domestic servant, striving to support her family back in Ireland. Despite an unfortunate marriage, she perseveres, eventually opening a boarding house where she reunites with her children. Through a blend of poetry, prose, and historical research, Groarke captures Ellen's resilience and determination, offering a vivid portrayal of her journey and the broader immigrant experience.

The poem laments the decline of rural life and the depopulation of the countryside, focusing on a fictional village that has fallen victim to the enclosures and social changes of the time. It nostalgically recalls the once-thriving community, with its school, its church, and its happy inhabitants, contrasting this idyllic past with the desolation and despair that have taken over since the wealthy have appropriated the common lands. The poet reflects on themes of corruption, the destructive impact of materialism, and the loss of pastoral innocence, ultimately critiquing the societal transformations that have led to the erosion of traditional rural values and ways of life.

"Nepenthe" is a lyrical poem that delves into the themes of escapism and the pursuit of forgetfulness through the mythical drug nepenthe, which is said to erase sorrow. The poem explores the human desire to find relief from the pain and suffering of the world, reflecting on the allure of a substance that can provide a temporary respite from the burdens of memory and grief. Through its rich imagery and contemplative tone, the work examines the tension between the need to confront reality and the seductive call of oblivion, ultimately questioning the cost of such ephemeral solace.

"Mythologies" is a collection of essays and stories that delve into the rich tapestry of Irish folklore, mythology, and the occult. The work explores the intersection of the author's fascination with the supernatural and the cultural heritage of Ireland, examining themes of national identity, the power of myth, and the spiritual dimensions of the human experience. Through a blend of scholarly analysis and imaginative narrative, the book seeks to uncover the deeper meanings behind Irish legends and the enduring influence of these ancient tales on contemporary thought and literature. The author's lyrical prose and insightful commentary offer readers a window into the mystical world of Celtic tradition and its enduring legacy.