How did you spend Seamus Heaney's birthday yesterday? I spent it listening to him read his poetry. He read (and chatted) at Syracuse University's Hendrick's Chapel. He began with "Digging", which must be every writer's favorite poem. He read "Bogland" and"Clearances", "Mid-Term Break" and many, many, many others. He was witty and clear-voiced. He seemed slightly shy. He answered all questions thoroughly even the question everyone dies a little when they hear: "Where do you get your inspiration?" Seamus Heaney gave that question as much respect as the the more original ones that followed. For the record, his answer was "my memories". He continued with that thought before he answered others. Great night. Want to hear him read: http://www.poetryarchive.org/poetryarchive/singlePoet.do?poetId=1392#
There is a great, short bio at the site too. You can read all about his Nobel Prize for Literature and his two Whitbread prizes.
Catch him in person when you can.
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