A banker who became a bard is about to release a mesmerising new book of poetry and images that showcase Kerry at its very best.
Paul Byrne described his new publication, For The Love of Kerry, as exactly that – a real labour of love given that he relishes nature and his passions in life include the written word and capturing memorable snapshots of the great outdoors.
Born in Collooney, Co Sligo in 1967, Paul’s family moved to Listowel when he was just a year old and he was educated in Scoil Réalta na Maidine and St Michael’s College.
After graduating from UCD, Paul’s career in financial services kept him in Dublin but after 25 years involved in senior banking, and a further decade in other sales roles, he moved to Killarney three years ago.
His said his new surroundings present the perfect opportunity to enjoy nature and to seek inspiration from Kerry’s sheer beauty.
For The Love of Kerry features 36 original and beautifully crafted poems with some stunning accompanying images captured by Paul on his outdoor adventures and driven by his love of literature.
Much of his inspiration was found in Killarney National Park – very close to his home on Loreto Road – and Paul said what really drives him is a sense of spirit, soul and scenery.
“I have always enjoyed writing and the magic of the written word. What I put down on paper is all about respect for the place we live in and the people we live alongside,” he said.
Paul’s work for the new book was inspired by the unrivalled natural beauty he has observed since he moved back to Kerry with his partner, Bridget, in 2022.
“The work is initially inspired by what I see through the camera lens and that is followed by a period of reflection and the application of a vivid imagination,” he said.
Fans of his work have described his poetry as building a bridge between senses and nature with his words communicating the very essence of Kerry.
Delving into his new collection, the reader should prepare to journey through lakes, rivers, waterfalls, valleys, islands, castles, beehive huts, monastic sites and experience the stunning scenery of Kerry.
For The Love of Kerry – published in hardback by KC Print and retailing at a great value €15 – will be officially launched by Mayor of Killarney, Cllr Maura Healy-Rae, at a reception in Killarney House at 8.00pm on Thursday, March 6th with Paul available for book signings from 7.30pm.
There will be poetry readings and some wonderfully atmospheric music on the night and those that haven’t already experienced Paul’s poetry are in for a real treat.
For The Love of Kerry will be his second book and it’s a follow up to his previous publication Inspirational Musings which hit the shelves in 2020.
Paul has previously read at The Helix in Dublin and Listowel Writers’ Week which is quite appropriate given that he can trace his love of poetry back to his childhood in the Kerry town and a love for William Butler Yeats and Seamus Heaney.
“It was an emotional homecoming after a 40-year absence and it stimulated my poetic muse and led to this collection being completed over the past three years,” he said.
IN HIS OWN WORDS
To muse about Kerry, is a wonderful thing,
To meditate on Kerry, a precious divine right
The world over, they come
To absorb her vistas, and embrace her charm
Her undeniable and unquenchable beauty
Forever etched in the mind.
Paul Byrne
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