Brendan Kennelly Quotes & Sayings

Poetry is, above all, a singing art of natural and magical connection because, though it is born out of one's person's solitude, it has the ability to reach out and touch in a humane and warmly illuminating way the solitude, even the loneliness, of others. That is why, to me, poetry is one of the most vital treasures that humanity possesses; it is a bridge between separated souls. — Brendan Kennelly

A writer is not interested in explaining reality, he's only interested in capturing it. — Brendan Kennelly

I know it does not matter that I do not understand. — Brendan Kennelly

Poetry is the ultimate democracy. — Brendan Kennelly

I go back beyond the old man
Mind and body broken
To find the unbroken man.
It is the moment before the dance begins.

Your lips are enjoying themselves
Whistling an air.
Whatever happens or cannot happen
In the time I have to spare
I see you dancing father — Brendan Kennelly

Though we live in a world that dreams of ending that always seems about to give in something that will not acknowledge conclusion insists that we forever begin. — Brendan Kennelly

If you want to serve the age, betray it. — Brendan Kennelly

All songs are living ghosts. And long for a living voice — Brendan Kennelly