The Women's Podcast

The Women's Podcast


Ep 444 A Ghost in the Throat: Doireann Ní Ghríofa

October 29, 2020

In today’s episode, Róisín Ingle is joined by Doireann Ni Ghriofa, a talented poet and the author of an original, evocative and lyrical book called A Ghost In the Throat. This stunning debut is an exploration into Caoineadh Airt Uí Laoghaire, one of the greatest love poems of the Irish language, written by Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill. A fluid hybrid of essay and autofiction, Ni Ghríofa weaves in her own lived experience as she sets herself the huge task of writing a new translation of the 18th century poem. It’s a visceral read, dripping with breast milk, full of the mundanity and the glory of motherhood. She spoke about the poem's powerful resonance and her lifelong obsession with finding out the rest of the story.

Also, a reminder that tickets are still available for our Big Fright In this Halloween night with British writer and journalist Caitlin Moran joining us as our special guest. Tickets available on irishtimes.com/big-night-in