Wednesday, January 25, 2017

Joe's poems a journey through life

A Brannockstown resident's book of poems recently featured on Celine Garvey's 'Artyfacts' programme on KFM radio.

‘Walk with Me…’ written and illustrated by Joseph Keogh brings together a collection of his poems written over a number of years. The subject matter is life in all its stages — both human life, and life in the natural world that surrounds us. The illustrations comprise a series of pencil sketches which contrast well with the appealing photographic images on the cover, also taken by the author.

“Writing poetry is one thing but the decision to open it up to others is the most difficult thing I have ever done," says Joe, a native of Newbridge. "As a very private person it is new territory for me!”

The collection is presented as a chronological journey, starting with a poem written in 1972 and progressing through the years up to 2016. As the title suggests, the author invites you to join him on this journey. The overall tone of the book is uplifting and readers of all ages quickly identify with the themes explored within the poems, finding a relevance to their own lives and experiences.

Joe Keogh attended the Patrician Brothers in Newbridge. He was a competitive athlete, was always involved with musical productions and organisations such as the Scouts and the Youth Club. Joe worked for a time in Bord Na Mona before going on to serve an apprenticeship as an electrician. He has also studied Environmental Management, worked for a wildlife magazine, farmed, run his own graphic printing business and flown birds of prey for a living at different stages in his life.

Retailing at €10, ‘Walk with me…’ is currently available from Farrell and Nephew, Main Street, Newbridge and Barker & Jones, Poplar Square, Naas.