IRISH LITERATURE.

Auckland Star, Volume LIV, Issue 147, 22 June 1923, Page 10

IRISH LITERATURE.

(To tbe Editor.)

Sir. —Amongst the unique collection of literature bequeathed by Sir George Grey is one of the most complete and valuable works that lias ever been published, entitled the "'Annals of Ireland.'' and is printed both in English and in the tongue of the Gael. It is not necessary to say -what history lui9 done for Ireland. In no country is national literature more generously patronised and liberally diffused. For agos the spirit of nationality was sustained and transmitted by learned bards, the traditions of the elans and families, and the legends and associations that cling like ivy round a ruin to every spot of the storied island. In America the Irish race has founded a university, where a CVltic chair reminds them of Erin's learned and glorious past, and speaks of her proud record as a civiliser in the days when Europe, after the break up of ihe Roman Empire, was a congeries of bloody factions and races. Could we not. in some measure, emulate our kinI dred in America, or at least, rescue from the obscurity where they are at present lying, unopened and unread, those ponderous volumes, the greatest heritage, of the Gaol? If those treasured volumes were easy of access, and reproduced in smaller books, they certainly would attract many readers. The Irish language is now the recognised official tongue of the Dai] Eireann. and everywhere throughout the Green Isle there is a. revival of the old language, customs , and traditions of the people. The Governor of the Free .Slate. Mr. Tim Ilealy. lon being elected a member of the Irish Academy recently, bore witness to this national resurrection. Celtic literature has been the inspiration to high aehuve- I ments in the artistic world. Our painters, artists, sculptors, have felt its realistic power. 1 would respectfully ) suggest classification of Celtic litera- j ture in our library. Scattered through many apartments are works which, if arranged in one place, would be greatly appreciated.—l am, etc.. SiIAXK ODALA.