A Bloomsday Rag : Seamus Breathnach : James Joyce VI:

James Joyce (1882-1941)

On June 10th 1904 the 21 year-old James ('Jim') Joyce, first clapped eyes on Nora Barnacle. The tempestuous Dubliner met his match in the 'Girseach' from Galway. The couple fell in love with each other and managed to meet again on June 16th, when it was rumoured that Nora 'made a man of him.' In any event , Joyce commemorated the occasion with Ulysses , the entire action of which is centred on 'Bloomsday', June 16th, 1904.

These days Bloomsday is regarded as a day of joy. It celebrates the lives of James Joyce and Nora Barnacle -- the work of Ulysses , and the couples' singular victory over adversity. Against all the odds , the pennyless couple set out for Europe: Joyce felt that Ireland had no place for his genius. (Sadly, no one has ever argued against the wisdom of his decision to quit Ireland.)

Inspired by their dedication, Fran (Fiach) Walsh has written the following tune (A Bloomsday Rag) in celebration of the Duo, Dublin and the date they defied their friends, families and loved ones to embark upon La Vie Boheme.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• James Joyce
• Nora Barnacle
• Bloomsday
• June 16 1904 Romance
• La Vie Boheme
• Emigration
• Dublin;
• s.breathnach