Limerick poets featured in literary journal’s latest edition

LIMERICK City and County Council Arts Office has formally launched the latest edition of The Stony Thursday Book at Limerick City Library.

The Stony Thursday Book is one of the longest-running literary journals in Ireland, and this is its 46th edition, No.20 in the new series, funded by The Arts Council and Limerick City and County Council.

Founded by Limerick poets John Liddy and Jim Burke in 1975, who have both continued to have long and impressive careers in poetry, this year marks the 50th anniversary of The Stony Thursday Book founding. 

This volume of The Stony Thursday Book was edited by award-winning Irish poet, writer, and teacher Victoria Kennefick and includes 116 works from 87 selected poets. 

Co-founders John Liddy and Jim Burke have been invited back to jointly edit this very special edition. 

During the submission process over the last year, Victoria reviewed 900 individual poems from over 300 submissions, from over 10 different countries, showcasing the publication's reach and its importance as a platform for poets to showcase their work.

Over 30 of the selected poets gathered at the Limerick City Library to formally launch the book and read their poetry contributions.

Deputising for the Mayor of Limerick at the launch, Councillor Sharon Benson said, "This year's edition, curated by the talented Victoria Kennefick, showcases a remarkable level of diversity that leaps from its pages. It is a powerful collection that reinforces the importance of providing a space where poets from all backgrounds can share their unique expressions and stories."

Editor of the 46th edition of the Stony Thursday Book, Victoria Kinnefick commented: "Curating this year's edition of The Stony Thursday Book has been both a challenging and immensely rewarding experience. 

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“It was a pleasure to delve into each submission and discover the unique perspectives and creative expressions that each poet brought to the table. This anthology is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic poetry community we have, and I am honoured to have had the opportunity to curate such a powerful collection."

Etain McCooey, Arts Officer with Limerick City and County Council, said, "The Stony Thursday Book provides an invaluable opportunity for poets all across Limerick and beyond to have their poetry heard. It is a wonderful publication, which forms an integral part of the Limerick City and County Council arts programme. 

“Two graduates of Limerick School of Art and Design were also involved: the edition was designed by Richard Meade, an accomplished graphic designer, and the cover art is by Limerick artist Ashleigh Boyd."

Contributor poets this year include many from around Ireland and beyond, some with strong Limerick connections, Kieran Beville, Máighréad Medbh, Suzanne Roys, and Breda Spaight are all natives of Limerick, and Deirdre Devally, Marion Moynihan, Eoin Devereux, Ian Hickey, and Andreas Pargger have all studied and taught at the University of Limerick or at Mary Immaculate College.

With the launch of this edition of the book came the announcement of a new open call for poetry for the next edition. 

The Stony Thursday Book is seeking submissions from local, national, and international poets for its next issue, to be published in Autumn/Winter 2025. 

Submission to The Stony Thursday Book is online via Limerick.ie

The closing date for receipt of poetry submissions is 5pm, Monday, June 2.