'The stories are rich in dialogue - indeed on many pages there is only dialogue - while the quick exchange of words beats out the rhythm of history on the move' CLAIRE CONNOLLY from her preface to The Experiences of an Irish R. M.The stories in Experiences of an Irish R. M. are almost entirely concerned with the doings of Skebawn in south-western Ireland and its surroundings. At the centre is the figure of Major Yeates, the Irish Resident Magistra...

'The novel's dark energies - concerned with histories of gender, property, desire, and institutionalization - carry it forth into our present moment. It remains indispensable reading' Claire Connolly from her preface to The Real CharlotteIn 1894, the London evening newspaper the St James's Gazette announced 'a real acquisition', a new novel from the publishers Ward and Downey. The Real Charlotte was the first collaborative success of many for Some...

The bookshelves of British literature are incredible collections that have gathered together centuries of very talented authors. From these Isles their fame spread and whilst among their number many are now forgotten or neglected their talents endure. Among them are Somerville & Ross - the writing pseudonym for Edith Somerville & Violet Florence Martin Sidney Benson Thorp.

Mount music presents a vivid portrayal of childhood, family life, and social structure within a rural Irish setting, blending humour, observation, and subtle reflection on change. The narrative centres on youthful imagination and independence, capturing the energy and spontaneity of early experiences while revealing how identity is shaped within the boundaries of family and tradition. Life within a landed household is depicted through everyday interactions, where authority, affection, and ...

E. Œ. Somerville and Martin Ross, the pen names of Edith Somerville and Violet Martin, respectively, were known for their humorous and insightful portrayals of Irish rural life and characters. In "All on the Irish Shore," the authors offer a series of vignettes and sketches that capture the essence of life along the Irish coastline.Through their vivid descriptions and colorful characters, Somerville and Ross paint a rich tapestry of Irish culture, customs, and traditions. The sketches may ...

"Irish Memories" by Martin Ross and E. Oe. Somerville is a captivating exploration of the Irish landscape and culture through the eyes of its authors. The book is a rich tapestry of anecdotes, observations, and reflections that paint a vivid picture of Ireland's charm and complexity. Ross and Somerville, both keen observers of life, share their experiences and encounters, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Irish countryside and the warmth of its people. Their writi...

“In that new world which was the old.” There had been several days of thick, murky weather—dull, uncomplaining days that bore their burden of fog and rain in monotonous endurance. Six of such I had lived through; a passive existence, parcelled out to me by the uncomprehended clanging of bells, and the, to me, still more incomprehensible clatter which, recurring at regular intervals, told that a hungry multitude were plying their knives and forks in the saloon. But a change had come at last...

"In the Vine Country" by Martin Ross and E. Oe. Somerville is a captivating exploration of rural life in Ireland, focusing on the intricate relationships between its characters and the land they inhabit. The narrative weaves together themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, set against the backdrop of lush vineyards and the beauty of the Irish countryside. The authors' vivid descriptions bring the landscape to life, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and scents of the region, w...

The stories in "Further Experiences of an Irish R.M." continue to explore the humorous and sometimes poignant experiences of Major Sinclair Yeates, the Resident Magistrate (R.M.), as he navigates the complexities of rural Irish life. Set against the backdrop of late 19th-century Ireland, the narratives often feature eccentric characters, local customs, and the clash of English and Irish cultures.Edith Somerville and Violet Martin, who wrote under the pen name Martin Ross, were known for th...

"Through Connemara in a Governess Cart" is a delightful travel narrative that captures the essence of the Irish landscape and culture through the eyes of Martin Ross and E. Oe. Somerville. The authors embark on a whimsical journey across Connemara, exploring its rugged beauty, charming villages, and the warmth of its people. Their vivid descriptions and keen observations bring the region to life, making readers feel as if they are traversing the scenic routes alongside them, experiencing t...

MY second cousin and I came to London for ten days in the middle of last June, and we stayed there for three weeks, waiting for a fine day. We were Irish, and all the English with whom we had hitherto come in contact had impressed upon us that we should never know what fine weather was till we came to England. Perhaps we came at a bad moment, when the weather, like the shops, was having its cheap sales. Certainly such half-hours of sunshine as we came in for were of the nature of “soiled r...

“Well, I’m not exactly sure,” said the ironmonger, gazing out into the glaring street through a doorway festooned with tin mugs and gridirons, “but I think it was the gentleman as played the kettle-drum that rode him.” His eyes seemed to follow some half-remembered pageant, though outwardly they rested on the languid salutations of the saddler’s dog and the hotel collie on the opposite pavement. Miss O’Flannigan, who looked and was too hot for conversation, remained impassive where she sat...