An unquestionably enlightening literary discussion, ‘Motherhood and Madness’ will be held on Wednesday, April 5 at 8pm to commemorate the launch of Milk: On Motherhood and Madness by Alice Kinsella. On the night, Alice will be joined by fellow writer Sophie White, and author Una Mannion moderating proceedings.
Deeply personal but with a universal resonance as a study of motherhood in a supposedly modernised Ireland, Milk is garnering critical acclaim at breakneck speed due to Kinsella’s writing style, which beautifully captures the fraught hope of a new parent in pre- and postnatal chaos.
"Early drafts of what would become Milk were written during Benchmarks at the Linenhall. It's a joy to be bringing the finished work back to where it began.", enthused Kinsella.
Raised in Mayo, Alice’s work has been published in The Irish Times, Poetry Ireland Review, RTÉ, Banshee, and The North, among others. Her pamphlet Sexy Fruit was a Poetry Book Society Spring 2019 Selection. She is also the editor of Empty House: poetry and prose on the climate crisis.
Writer and podcaster, Sophie White is author of the Irish Book Awards shortlisted, Recipes For A Nervous Breakdown. Her writing has been regaled by Irish writing legend Marian Keyes as ‘such fun - gas, clever stuff’, therefore it’s unsurprising that she has also dabbled in stand-up comedy.
Directing the discussion as moderator, Una Mannion’s debut novel, A Crooked Tree was published in 2021, subsequently winning the 2022 Kate O’Brien Prize. Winner of numerous short fiction and poetry prizes including The Hennessy New Irish Writing Poetry Award and The Cúirt International Short Fiction Award, Una originally from Philadelphia now lives in Sligo.
Other events of note
‘Niall McCabe’ graces the Linenhall stage with his astoundingly distinct sound on Thursday, April 20. Born on Clare Island, McCabe is rising to prominence for his signature folk-trad tones. Having previously toured with Ed Sheeran, Foy Vance and Johnny Swim, Niall is now establishing himself as one of Ireland’s best singers and songwriters.
Camilla Hanney’s exhibition ‘A Common Thread’ is lovingly showcased in the Linenhall gallery until April 22. Her delicate ceramic sculptures resembling lace adorn the historic space, exploring the juxtaposition between the luxe quality of fine materials, and the working hands behind the creation.
Further detail on all Linenhall events is available via www.thelinenhall.com or by calling the box office on 094 9023733.
