CONGRATS! Strong reception at launch of Tipperary woman's debut poetry collection
Rosemary Joyce launched her debut poetry collection Whispers From The Shadows in Nenagh
The Nenagh Tourist Office was filled with words, rhythm and music on Saturday 30 August, as Rosemary Joyce, Nenagh District Administrator with Tipperary County Council, launched her debut poetry collection Whispers From The Shadows.
The launch, compered by Trish Taylor Thompson, Artistic Director of Nenagh Arts Centre, drew a full house of invited guests. The evening combined readings by the author with music from Robbie Glennon, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere.
Whispers From The Shadows features 30 poems, divided into three thematic sections: Echoes of Yesterday – A Soul’s Reflection, Fragments of Today – Searching for Self, and Whispers of Tomorrow – The Horizon of Hope. Through these works, Joyce explores the power of nature, the resilience needed in life’s challenges, and her personal reflections on single parenthood.
“Not being able to sing, these poems are my music, my rhythm,” Joyce explained.
Award-winning author Donal Ryan praised the collection in his commentary, describing it as “an intensely moving collection, replete with moments of grace that cause the reader to pause and reread to experience again the power of your language.” He highlighted the “rare generosity at the heart of these works” and noted their “palpatory, musical rhythm, a beat that corresponds to the beat of our hearts.”
The launch also marked a personal celebration for Joyce, who was joined on the night by her daughter, Louise.
Whispers From The Shadows is now available locally at The Bookworm in Thurles and the Nenagh Bookshop, priced at €10.