New literary work to 'cross boundaries and build bridges'

A LITERARY pamphlet will celebrate the exploration of gender, identity, memory and form -  just in time for Limerick Pride Weekend.

Produced by Poetry Ireland and funded by the Arts Council of Ireland, Trumpet 12 was guest-edited by Limerick writer, William Keohane. The pamphlet will explore the theme of ‘crossing’ and will be launched this City Gallery of Art on 7 July at 1pm ahead of Limerick Pride Weekend. The event is open to everyone, and will include readings from contributors, discussions, and refreshments.

With this issue, William aimed to highlight literary talent from Limerick, but also to give a platform to emerging trans and non-binary artists working across Ireland and beyond.

Off The Record: Limerick writer William Keohane explores childhood memories

Speaking of Trumpet 12, William said: "Trumpet 12 includes reflections on age, heritage, home; on the thin line between sickness and health, life and death."

“There’s also a piece called Reflections on Memory, where I asked seven different writers to reflect on different intersections between their life and memory,” noted William.

Representation is important for anybody who feels that they’re not reflected in literature.

“Representation is important because you can't really envisage a future for yourself if you can't see that future. And I think writing is a really wonderful way to sort of make futures visible. Representation is important for queer and trans writers, but it's also important for anybody who feels that they're not reflected in the realm of literature.”

The pamphlet has a pride focus.

“Pride is a wonderful celebration of trans identity and LGBQ+ identity. But not everybody feels comfortable out marching in the streets and to be perfectly honest, some people don't feel safe in that way. We've seen recently with protests happening at bookshops, at libraries and at drag story time events that the realm of literature is now being targeted and that is something that has to be protected, because literature can be a really important force for good and for change.

“But Trumpet 12 is also a place for play and experimentation with form. “As well as serious and poignant pieces of writing, there’s also moments of levity and humour that I think are really necessary, especially right now,” he said. 
 

"Along with a strong Limerick contingent, there are French, Galician, Canadian, Nigerian/Irish, and American writers included in Trumpet 12, all of whom share a connection to Ireland in some way and share in the belief that literature can help us to cross boundaries and build bridges," William concluded. 

Trumpet 12 is available in selected bookshops, or via poetryireland.ie