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The Great Hunger in Ireland
Interview with Pat McEntegart
It’s not every day that you come across a book that weaves history, language, and passion together as seamlessly as Pat McEntegart’s Crossmaglen Paddy Said.
We recently had the pleasure of interviewing McEntegart to delve deeper into the motivations and inspirations behind this novel, particularly in its exploration of the Great Hunger in Ireland, a pivotal period that remains shadowed in many mainstream narratives.
Q – The book is beautifully written and addresses a subject that is not very well known, the period of Great Hunger in Ireland. Why did you want to write about this topic in Crossmaglen Paddy Said?
A – Pat McEntegart:
To Establish Truth and Justice
The Troubles in Northern Ireland
Respect for the Dialect
Crossmaglen Paddy Said is a reflection on how societies evolve and the importance of carrying forward stories that shape our identities. Read Crossmaglen Paddy Said through the link below.
This is not a book to be read just for laughs as it contains a mix of tragedy and comedy, it is a true story, all incidents mentioned happened as they are described and at that time and place. In the words of an eminent professional who first read the manuscript, who said “This book does not follow any set plot or order. Perhaps this is intentional and you are going for a James Joyce stream of consciousness effect. Or Beckett where everything happens with only one or two characters in one room on one day. Or Flann O’Brien’s writings, where there are surreal theories and weird characters and the reader has the sense of entering a strange world”.
It has been compared by a Hollywood producer with Conor McPhersons Laurence Oliver award winning play “The Weir” which won the play of the year award in 1999. In this book is contained authentic evidence of the British ships and regiments who exported the food off the island of Ireland during the period of the “Great Hunger” 1845-50.
Inside it also draws a unique paralleled comparison between an incident which occurred relating to Crossmaglen on the 15th Aug 1971 and Boston Massachusetts on the 5th March 1770 the most important date in American history.
In the second phase, this book becomes an inspirational story which details and outlines the lifetime achievements of both Paddy and the narrator Paudric Moore and it then becomes a super motivational tool for its readers.
Crossmaglen Paddy Said
In Patrick McEntegart’s Crossmaglen Paddy Said, readers are invited to explore a beautifully articulated and thought-provoking tale that promises to leave an enduring impression. This masterfully crafted historical novel, grounded in real events, invites the reader into an immersive experience that transcends the mere act of reading.
With a perceptive eye, McEntegart unveils the stark realities encountered by the Irish under British dominion, weaving a compelling narrative that leads toward their triumphant resistance against suppression. Laden with action, humor, and tragedy and infused with the quintessential Irish wit, the story not only entertains but ignites a passion for justice.
The novel unfolds the journey of Paudric Moore, who embarks from America to the Irish town of Crossmaglen to interview Paddy, a fifth-generation native. Through this narrative, the author aspires to provide a genuine portrayal of Crossmaglen’s unique culture and history, kindling a spark in those with an interest in universal equality and justice. Set primarily in 1971, with concluding elements reaching to the present day, the novel artfully blends the past with the present.
A notable aspect of McEntegart’s writing lies in his stream-of-consciousness approach. Eschewing a conventional plot, he concentrates on the story’s emotional resonance and underlying message, a feat accomplished through exquisite language and poetic flair. The inclusion of photographs enriches the experience, allowing readers to viscerally connect with the historical backdrop. Uniquely, the novel draws parallels between events in Crossmaglen on August 15th, 1971, and the significant episode in Boston, Massachusetts, on March 5th, 1770.
McEntegart’s passion for his hometown of Crossmaglen permeates the text, manifesting through fragments of songs, poetry, and local anecdotes. He captures Irish humor and the distinct pronunciation and writing style with an authenticity that resonates with readers.
For those intrigued by Irish history and culture or simply looking to be transported to another time and place through the magic of storytelling, Crossmaglen Paddy Said offers a remarkable literary journey. Its well-balanced blend of historical insight, emotional depth, and cultural richness makes it an invaluable addition to the bookshelves of readers seeking both enlightenment and enjoyment.
Pages: 204 | ASIN : B0C7HKZX5S
Crossmaglen Paddy Said
This book offers an unparalleled reading experience that surpasses anything you have encountered before. While indulging in captivating realms of fantasy may be delightful, there is something truly invaluable about a work that stimulates your emotions, provokes your thoughts, motivates you, and leaves you inspired. Such is the case with Crossmaglen Paddy Said by Pat McEntegart.
A literary treasure of exceptional rarity, this book weaves together real-life events in a masterful blend of laughter and tragedy. Centered in the heart of Crossmaglen, Ireland, it eschews a conventional narrative structure in favor of a compelling stream-of-consciousness style. As readers, we are spirited away from one event to another, traversing the rich tapestry of human experience. The overarching purpose of this book is to ignite a beacon of hope within the minds and lives of all those who harbor a deep-seated concern for justice and equality. What sets it apart is the unadorned, authentic language that reverberates with the distinctive spirit of Paddy’s neighborhood.
Its basis in real-life occurrences grants it an unparalleled resonance, and its ability to inspire surpasses the boundaries of imagination. The narrative unearths the lives of valiant heroes who fought ardently for their homelands, carving out a path for future generations to flourish. To witness such remarkable tales unfold brings me an indescribable sense of fulfillment.
Crossmaglen Paddy Said triumphs in its portrayal of characters, deftly crafted by the author. These individuals possess an extraordinary capacity to forge emotional connections with readers, particularly Paddy himself. Their journey of growth and transformation is alluring, offering a compelling testament to the resilience of the human spirit.
Crossmaglen Paddy Said is an exquisite masterpiece that redefines the boundaries of literary excellence. Its ability to kindle a fire within its readers, urging them to champion justice and equality, is nothing short of extraordinary. Through its genuine portrayal of characters and their transformative journeys, it leaves an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who have the privilege of embarking on this remarkable literary odyssey.
Pages: 204 | ASIN : B0C7HKZX5S
Crossmaglen Paddy Said
Crossmaglen Paddy Said by Pat McEntegart weaves a captivating parallel between an incident that took place in Crossmaglen on August 15, 1971, and the pivotal events that occurred in Boston, Massachusetts, on March 5, 1770—a date of great significance in American history. The second phase of Crossmaglen Paddy Said transitions into an inspirational narrative, highlighting the lifetime achievements of both Paddy and the narrator, Paudric Moore. As the story unfolds, it becomes a powerful motivational tool, encouraging readers to reflect on their own lives and strive for greatness.
The book immerses readers in a richly detailed portrayal of Paddy’s life, as he passionately expresses his desire for the truth about British rule to be documented from Ireland’s perspective. Through Paddy’s insights, the author skillfully reveals the harsh realities faced by the Irish under British oppression and offers a compelling narrative of their ultimate triumph over suppression. One of the notable aspects of this book is McEntegart’s masterful use of language. The book is narrated in a conversational Irish dialect, paying homage to the cultural heritage of Ireland. This linguistic distinction adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling, further enhancing the reader’s engagement with the narrative. Furthermore, the incorporation of accurate historical artifacts serves to reinforce the credibility of the story and provides a comprehensive view from an Irish standpoint. McEntegart’s writing style is both descriptive and evocative, successfully capturing the tragedy and resilience of the Irish people.
The author’s melancholic tone expertly portrays the gravity of the events, while his meticulous attention to detail vividly brings historical moments to life. Rather than presenting a straightforward chronological account, the narrative unfolds as a reminiscence by Paddy, skillfully captured by the narrator. This approach imbues the story with a personal touch, allowing readers to intimately connect with the characters and their experiences.
McEntegart’s writing employs easy-to-read language and maintains a brisk pace, ensuring that readers can absorb the historical significance of the narrative without feeling overwhelmed. The author’s ability to balance the weight of the subject matter with an engaging storytelling style is commendable and makes the book all the more captivating.
Crossmaglen Paddy Said serves as a meaningful and inspiring lesson that ignites a passion for justice and equality. Pat McEntegart’s remarkable storytelling abilities, combined with his dedication to historical accuracy, make this book a must-read for anyone seeking a profound understanding of the Irish struggle under British rule.
Pages: 204 | ASIN : B0C7HKZX5S
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