Mick Clifford: What Obama didn’t say in Dublin spoke loudest

At Dublin’s 3Arena, Barack Obama offered a mix of caution, candour and hope as democracy’s fragility loomed large

An Evening With President Barack Obama In Conversation with Fintan O'Toole at the 3Arena. Picture: Ray Keogh

Barack Obama arrived on stage in his trademark loping stride, like a farmer pacing land. The wave was familiar too. We’ve seen it often since he first came to prominence as a young senator, on election night in 2008, and throughout his presidency.

His arrival at the 3Arena in Dublin on Friday drew a standing ovation that felt like a yearning. The world is upside down, and here is somebody who may not be able to straighten it out, but at least could offer hope. A faith healer for the age of Trump.