In Search of Ireland

H.V. Morton was one of the finest travel writers of his day. He is cosmopolitan and sophisticated with a solid understanding of history. His commentary is fascinating because he concentrates on his encounters with the people of the region he is visiting. His opinions are informed not only by cultural references and psychological insight, but mostly by an abiding respect and love for the characters he meets. He is a student of the human drama and a feeling participant in the life of those he encounters, however briefly. Therein lies much of the poignancy and attraction of his works. In short, he loves to witness to the "soul" in people. His books are affecting on a deeply human level. Oh, and did I mention, his writing is marvelous?

I own a very old copy of this- perhaps even a first edition- that is well worn and loved from reading it again and again over the last 30-some years I have owned it. This is a wonderful trip through Ireland of the early 20th century, a calmer time, in some respects, and early days of Irish freedom. You visit with the author the Guniess brewery (and hear some hysterical stories by the employees about other visitors!), you stay overnight at the Mt.Melleray monastery, and spend time on the Curraugh watching beautiful thoroubred horses. You come to know the Irish people in ways that the average tourist does not, sharing their homes, their meals...and even their mysterious moonshine, poteen.^_^ While reading this book, you will find yourself relaxing and enjoying the surroundings, and living the life and legends of Ireland of that time, and when the book is finished, you will find yourself mourning that this is a bygone era. But it is a book that should have a place on the shelf of anyone who has any interest in Ireland and the Celtic peoples.