The poetry of ploughing: National Ploughing Championship patrons to select favourite works
Love of agriculture and the land has been a favourite theme for poets. In recent times Patrick Kavanagh and Seamus Heaney, for example, have written passionately about farming.
Now ‘A Poem for the Ploughing’ is being launched by the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin to find out what verses are the most evocative of life on the land.
People all over the country are being invited to submit their top choice of poem which captures the wonders of country life and the craft of farming.
The competition to find people’s favourite poem about agriculture from the work of established national or international poets follows the recent successful ‘Poem for Ireland’ search organised by RTÉ.
‘A Poem for the Ploughing’ is the brainchild of Bishop Denis Nulty, in whose diocese the ploughing championships will be held (September 22-24) in Ratheniska, Co Laois. He comes from a farming family in Meath and enjoys reading poetry.
“Poetry is a beautiful way of expressing emotions and ideas,” he said. “Rhythm and imagery can capture the magic and hardship of farming really well. I believe we will see many wonderful entries to depict the lives of people who live close to the soil.”
Between now and September 9, people are asked to submit their suggestions to Poem for the Ploughing, Faith Development Services, College St, Carlow or by email to poemfortheploughing@kandle.ie.
The top five/six poems nominated will be displayed in the Kildare and Leighlin tent at the championships. Visitors can vote for their favourite. The result will be announced on the final day of the event.
Everyone who submits a poem will be entered into a draw for €250 worth of product from BLF Nutrition Ltd.
