Contentious Subjects: Colm Toibin, Writer

Irish politics is seen as lovely and something the world should learn from according to an Irishman living in the US. While there is some frustration with the inertia in Irish politics, there is also a sense of decency and normalcy, particularly with Prime Minister Micheál Martin. Education is largely free in Ireland, although there are some issues with the healthcare system. In contrast, the US is viewed negatively with the recent events at the Capitol exposing the flaws in the system, despite the often romanticized notions of the country’s greatness. The behavior of politicians, particularly in light of threats, has been criticized as lacking integrity.

The Irishman expresses hope for a more decent society based on ordinary political progress rather than an idealized version of greatness. The upcoming midterm elections in the US are seen as crucial for the future of the country, with concerns raised about the potential consequences if certain individuals are re-elected. The Irishman’s most recent book, “Long Island,” delves into political issues against the backdrop of Watergate in the US and the troubles in Northern Ireland in 1976. The personal drama of migration is at the forefront, highlighting the demonization of outsiders in society.

Reflecting on his past, the Irishman reveals that he struggled with a stammer during childhood, which continued into his teenage years. Overcoming this challenge, he shares his experience of being taunted and the pressure to adopt an English accent to alleviate the stammering. When it comes to his body, he admits to never feeling good about it and shies away from excessive focus on physical appearance. Instead, he finds interest in looking outward, appreciating the uniqueness and complexity of the human experience.

Colm Tóibín, the Irish writer, will be making appearances at the Melbourne Writers Festival and the Sydney Writers’ Festival. His insights into Irish politics, personal struggles, and literary works provide a nuanced perspective on society and the human condition. By shedding light on the complexities of migration, politics, and personal challenges, Tóibín encourages reflection and empathy towards others. As a prominent voice in contemporary literature, his contributions serve to enrich the cultural and intellectual landscape.