Renowned poet Michael Longley has passed away at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy that cements his status as one of the world's literary greats. A native of Belfast, Longley was educated at the Royal Belfast Academical Institution before moving on to Trinity College Dublin, where his passion for poetry flourished. Despite living in Belfast during the tumultuous period known as the Troubles, he initially resisted addressing the conflict in his work. However, his poems, including "The Ice-Cream Man," later explored the complexities of this era.
Longley published his first poetry collection, "No Continuing City," at the age of 30, marking the beginning of a distinguished literary career. His contributions to literature earned him numerous accolades, including the T.S. Eliot Prize, the Feltrinelli International Prize, and the Whitbread Poetry Prize. In recognition of his cultural impact, he received the freedom of his native city in 2015 and was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2010.
"Michael was one of the Belfast greats. One of the Irish greats. One of the world's greats." – Colin Davidson
President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins, lauded Longley as a peerless poet, noting his work's suitability for a Nobel Prize for Literature. Longley's poem "Ceasefire," written in 1994, stands among his most famous works. It poignantly captures the sectarian violence that characterized Northern Ireland during the 1970s and '80s.
"It has long been my belief that his work is of the level that would be befitting of a Nobel Prize for Literature." – Michael D Higgins
Tributes have poured in from all quarters, celebrating Longley not only for his literary achievements but also for his personal qualities. Claire Hanna described him as a remarkable human being, highlighting his kindness, generosity, and humor.
"He was our greatest living poet. More pertinently, he was a beautiful human being, kind, generous, open, humorous. He was truly a wonderful person." – Claire Hanna
Colin Davidson expressed both sorrow and pride at Longley's passing, emphasizing the quiet yet profound truths conveyed through his poetry.
"Today, I am filled with sadness and a great sense of pride." – Colin Davidson
"A poet whose work quietly whispered those truths which we all needed to hear." – Colin Davidson
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