Intrepid traveller delights audience at Johnston Library

Close to 150 people enjoyed Cavan Library Service"s literary double bill last week. On Sunday 5th October John Quinn, writer and broadcaster, explored his own work with a knowledgeable audience. He read extensively from his latest publication, Goodnight Ballivor, I"ll Sleep in Trim. The audience was enthralled by John"s very moving performance. The following night, Johnston Central was packed to capacity for the second part of the literary double bill: John Quinn in conversation with Dervla Murphy, writer and intrepid traveller. Cavan Library Staff Team always believed that if John could only be persuaded to interview Irish writers in Johnston Central the result would be something quite special, and so it proved. John is peerless as an interviewer and Dervla Murphy, speaking after the event, noted that John was 'the most skilful and knowledgeable interviewer I have experienced over my long career. He made the interview pleasurable for me and revealing for the audience.' Dervla"s unique voice was clearly heard as she and John together went on a whistle stop tour of her early life, her travels and her writing. Laughter rang out as she recounted some of the hair-raising episodes of her travels all over the world. You could hear a pin drop when the interview touched on some of the issues Dervla is passionate about such as globalisation and the impact of mass tourism on fragile cultures. Her latest book 'The Island that dared: journeys in Cuba' led to an interesting discussion as did her plans for her next book on Israel and Palestine. The lively question and answer session that followed was testament to how engaged and informed the audience was. The audience included one fan from Dorset who travelled over especially for the opportunity to meet her favourite writer. Another member of the audience had been so enthralled by Dervla"s first book that she set out to replicate this journey, but not be bicycle! Dervla"s first six month adventure involved a loaded pistol and saw her travel through Europe, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and over the Himalayas into Pakistan and India. Both writers stayed to chat and sign books after the event and the audience was reluctant to let them leave. Cavan Library Service looks forward to bringing John Quinn back to interview another Irish writer so watch out for the next literary bill in Johnston Central. It will be well worth waiting for!