KINSELLA, Thomas (translator). The Sons of Usnech: The Exile of the Sons of Usnech & the Exile of Fergus & the Death of the Sons of Usnech and Deirdre (a presentation inscription by Kinsella on the front free endpaper: “For Eavan Boland with all good wishes. Thomas Kinsella. 28.7.72.”)

Dublin: The Dolmen Press, March 1960. Small octavo. Original pale green cloth with decorative device to upper cover; in the original printed dust wrapper. Dust wrapper with some spotting and light wear; cloth clean; internally fresh. A very good association copy.

This copy bears a presentation inscription by Kinsella on the front free endpaper: “For Eavan Boland with all good wishes. Thomas Kinsella. 28.7.72.”

A finely printed Dolmen Press edition of the early Irish saga Longes Mac nUisnig, translated from the Irish by the distinguished poet and translator Thomas Kinsella. The work recounts the tragic Ulster Cycle legend of Deirdre and the Sons of Usnech, one of the most celebrated narratives in early Irish literature.

The recipient, Eavan Boland, was one of the most important Irish poets of the twentieth century and a central figure in modern Irish literature. Boland’s work explored Irish identity, history, and the role of women in Irish poetry. Associations between two major figures of modern Irish poetry are scarce and highly desirable.

The book was first printed in 1954 and reset and reprinted by the Dolmen Press in 1960 using Bembo type with Perpetua initials. Dolmen Press publications of this period are notable for their careful typography and important role in promoting modern Irish literature.

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