Keane, John B. Strong Tea. (Signed edition)

Cork: The Mercier Press, [1960s]. Early Mercier paperback edition. Small 8vo. pp. 126. Original illustrated publisher’s pictorial wrappers printed in black and orange. This copy bears a signed presentation inscription by the author on the front endpaper: “With every good wish from your oul’ segocia — J. B. Keane.” A very good copy in the original wrappers.

A lively collection of essays and sketches by the celebrated Kerry playwright and storyteller John B. Keane, whose sharp ear for dialogue and keen observation of rural Irish life made him one of the most popular Irish writers of the twentieth century. The pieces capture the wit, folklore, humour, and social character of Ireland in the mid-twentieth century, drawing on the author’s experiences in Listowel and the wider Kerry landscape.

Keane’s use of the affectionate phrase “oul’ segocia” (a typically Hiberno-English expression meaning “old companion” or “old friend”) reflects the warmth and informality often found in his inscriptions. Signed copies of Keane’s works are increasingly sought after, particularly as his reputation as one of Ireland’s great dramatists—author of The Field, Sive, and Big Maggie—continues to grow among collectors of Irish literary and theatrical material.

[L3 8E]