KEANE, John B. Innocent Bystanders and Other Stories. (Signed by John B. Keane)

Cork: Mercier Press, 1994. First edition. pp. 158. Pictorial wrappers. A fine copy. Signed by the author on the half-title: “Every good wish / John B. Keane.”

This late collection brings together a series of short, sharp, and often comic sketches of Irish life by one of the country’s most beloved dramatists. The stories range across themes of rural eccentricity, social manners, and the foibles of human nature, from “Whiners” and “Barsounds” to “Street Hazards,” “Rejection” and “Bottomseizers.” As with all Keane’s prose, the voice is unmistakably that of Listowel’s publican-playwright: rooted in local character while universal in appeal.

Published by Mercier Press during its 50th anniversary year, the book represents Keane in his mature period, at once playful, observant, and deeply humane. While not as widely known as Sive or The Field, these later collections are increasingly valued for their insight into Keane’s broader creative output and for the sharp humour that remained undimmed into the 1990s.

Signed copies are uncommon, particularly of Keane’s later short story volumes. This is an attractive example in excellent condition, suitable for collectors of modern Irish literature and signed Irish first editions.

[L3 8D]