Of Grave Importance

{a gravestone photo from our trip to Ballymoney}

Growing up, we would always walk through the China Village Cemetery, looking at all of the old graves. We’d daydream what their lives were like, living centuries before us in our same little village. We were especially fascinated by the graves of children who died very young. It’s mind-blowing to think about a time when there weren’t simple antibiotics and children died of diseases they’d never succumb to today. As a child, it was terrifying and interesting at the same time.

Next week, my little book club is going to a really cool talk in the Glasnevin Cemetery. Part of the Great Writing – Great Places Initiative of Dublin Unesco City of Literature, Of Grave Importance is taking place next Wednesday, November 2nd at 7:30pm. Historian Catriona Crowe and actor Fergus Cronin are going to give a talk (with singing too!) bringing to life the work of some of the writers buried in Glasnevin. It’s free, but you have to RSVP.

{The Ballymoney cemetery was filled with centuries old graves, haphazardly scattered through craggy trees.}

Doesn’t it just sound fascinating and spooky? We’re all very excited. Although we’re kind of wondering how appropriate it would be to bring a picnic blanket, snacks and a bottle of wine? Still debating on that one!