Michael Longley & Declan Ryan: Ash Keys

Published to coincide with the poet’s 85th birthday, Ash Keys (Jonathan Cape) presents a new selection of Longley’s finest works. Born in Belfast in 1939, his verse inhabits the landscapes of Ireland’s west, at the same time occupying a space within a distinctly European tradition, ranging freely across the continent’s histories, tragedies and triumphs. ’One of the most perfect poets alive,’ writes Sebastian Barry. ‘There is something in his work both ancient and modern. I read him as I might check the sky for stars.’

Michael Longley read from his work, and discussed it with fellow poet Declan Ryan, whose most recent collection Crisis Actor is published by Faber.