Author Archives: Ian

In the tradition of Francis Urquhart

Posted on 12th February 2023 by Ian

There is a moment in the television version of Michael Dobbs’ House of Cards when Francis Urquhart puts the new King Charles firmly in his place. Urquhart alludes to the fact that his family had come south at the beginning … Continue reading →

Posted in This sceptred isle | Leave a comment

Becoming a grumpy old git

Posted on 10th February 2023 by Ian

There was a pub I used to sometimes frequent which had a table and chairs set in one corner of the bar, on the wall beside the table there was a sign, ‘Grumpy Old Gits’ Corner.’ There were particular regulars … Continue reading →

Posted in Out and about | 10 Comments

The lands of delusions

Posted on 4th February 2023 by Ian

‘I prefer to concentrate on my own music.’ The occasion of the comment has long disappeared into the realms of forgetfulness, but there came an occasion when what was meant by ´my own music’ was revealed. It was a charity … Continue reading →

Posted in The stuff of daily life | 2 Comments

Moments to be hated

Posted on 2nd February 2023 by Ian

The test of endurance becomes worse. Third Year students have sat a two hour mathematics paper for their mock Junior Certificate exam. They then had a twenty minute break before returning to the examination room for ‘study time’. Study time … Continue reading →

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Frightened by exams

Posted on 31st January 2023 by Ian

Can one have a vicarious sinking feeling? Is it possible that the apprehension felt by others is something that might be fully sensed by oneself? The Leaving Certificate mock examinations have begun. A room filled with people of seventeen and … Continue reading →

Posted in The stuff of daily life | 6 Comments