After the Titanic

Over 45 years have elapsed since Derek Mahon announced his arrival at the forefront of Irish literary life with the release of 'Night-Crossing', but in many ways, the public's sense of Mahon remains as uncertain today as on the eve of that maiden release. Famously guarded and protective of his privacy, his writings and public appearances have only ever made oblique reference to the particulars of his past and inner life. Granted unique licence by Mahon himself to excavate that past and explore the myriad ways in which it has impacted his lyrical preoccupations, acclaimed archivist Stephen Enniss has uncovered a remarkable personal story.