Library to showcase exclusive Seamus Heaney exhibition ‘Nostalgia in the Afternoon’

The bespoke exhibition, titled ‘Nostalgia in the Afternoon’ - From Gorgon to the New Yorker, will be on display from Wednesday March 1 until Tuesday March 21 , and includes a presentation of a range of magazines that Seamus Heaney is widely recognised as one of the 20th century and won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1995.

Born in the townland of Tamniaran, near Castledawson, the exhibition displays magazines the poet has contributed to from the earliest stages of his writing career, dating back to 1959.

From his days as a student at Queen’s University Belfast, Seamus Heaney contributed to a wide range of leading magazines and periodicals.

Over the years the level of these contributions grew and were often used as a sounding board for early drafts of poems which were either kept ‘as is’ for collections, revised or indeed in some cases, never used again.

To close the exhibition and to mark World Poetry Day, Mr Brennan (exhibition curator) will deliver a talk in the library from 6pm until 7pm on March 21 , providing an opportunity to ask him directly about this fascinating collection.

Catherine Kane, District Officer for Libraries NI said: “I am absolutely delighted that Magherafelt Library has been chosen as a location to display this treasured and carefully curated collection. I am particularly pleased to have Pat Brennan delivering a talk at Magherafelt library on World Poetry Day. I would encourage you all to come along and view this collection.”

Magazines on display include The Observer Magazine, July 19 2009, Fortnight, Sept. ’83, Fortnight, November 1995, The Linen Hall Review Autumn 1989, The Sunday Times Culture, October 24 1999 and Irish Independent Weekend, April 21 2001 and more.

The exhibition can be viewed during normal library opening hours and is free of charge.

To reserve a place at Pat Brennan’s talk, telephone Magherafelt Library on 028 7963 2278 or email Magherafelt Library at [email protected]