Poem of the Week: Reek Sunday
This article features a poem titled 'Reek Sunday' by Tony O'Dwyer, reflecting on the annual pilgrimage to Croagh Patrick in Ireland. It also provides a brief roundup of various news headlines ranging from local Irish crime to international wildfire reports.
Why it matters
It serves as a cultural touchstone for Irish readers while providing a snapshot of the daily news cycle.
Poem of the Week: Reek Sunday – The Irish Times
'Reek Sunday': Climbers make their way to the summit of Croagh Patrick, Co Mayo, for the annual pilgrimage there, which traditionally takes place on the last Sunday in July. Photograph: Conor McKeown
Who would climb a mountain Who didn’t own sheep, or build A house on the summit, Walking over sharp stones, soaked bog, Pierced when not sinking? And those mountain streams! Cold and quick, And swelling in the night, Dragging the mountain towards them, With gravity’s pull always at their heels.
Descent is harder, One foot at a time Taking all the weight Of purgatory; Faces weather flushed, Mysterious paths bending To the impossible.
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