Jack and I attended a poetry gig the other night, which I will discuss today. Welcome to Monday, and welcome to the blog if you’re new. I am happy to see you.

As I mentioned recently that I was going to see Emmet O’Brien’s latest show at Workman’s in Dublin. Jack was thankfully able to join me. Poetry and spoken word are more fun when you’re in good company. Plus, everyone else at the gig was very welcoming and friendly. I, for one, had a lovely time.

We decided to take the bus. One thing about going to events that isn’t talked about enough is figuring out your means of transport. Plus, I was able to have a drink or two. I did have two in the end. That was enough. I went to Emmet’s last gig at Workman’s. I was sure to go because he announced it as his last show before he emigrated. He did not follow through with emigrating so Jack could see him live. So, swings and roundabouts. I was happy to have the opportunity to see him again.

It wasn’t just Emmet who graced the stage. He had an MC for the evening, Leon Dunne, who is one of the hosts of The Poetry’s Dead Podcast (which you should check out). Also performing were Jimbo Dillon (host of Dublin’s Finest (poetry event in Sin É)), Heavy Kevvy, Mikey Cullen, Anna D (All-Ireland Poetry Slam winner), The Poet Geoff, Emmet Kirwan, and music from Hannah McGinn (accompanied by April Cleary). It was a night of insane talent from everyone, with an incredibly supportive crowd. Emmet made a point to praise everyone who came before him. He said it was vital for him to showcase other talent. That’s what this community is about. I am starting to do it more these days, and it feels good to expose others to artists they may never have heard of. That’s what this blog was about today. It wasn’t a funny story about Jack and I acting like fools (which we did a bit). I just wanted to highlight talented people and get more eyes on them.

Jack and I had a conversation on the bus about our creative plans (stay tuned), and Jack asked if there was an audience for poetry events in our town and elsewhere. He makes a good point. I will be optimistic and say that there has been a resurgence. I think things are looking up. I haven’t given up yet, anyway. Neither has Jack. Neither has a lot of people I’ve been lucky enough to be acquainted with. Support the arts, is what I am trying to say. Even poetry. Poetry may be overlooked and shouldn’t. Not in this country, anyway.

That’s enough big upping for one day. Thank you for reading. Check out all the links above. Thank you, poetry, and thank you for your time.