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Bikes on the road to Billy Brennan’s Barn, Inniskeen Photo: © Michael Fisher

The bicycles go by in twos and threes –
There’s a dance in Billy Brennan’s barn to-night,
And there’s the half-talk code of mysteries
And the wink-and-elbow language of delight.
Half-past eight and there is not a spot
Upon a mile of road, no shadow thrown
That might turn out a man or woman, not
A footfall tapping secrecies of stone.
I have what every poet hates in spite
Of all the solemn talk of contemplation.
Oh, Alexander Selkirk knew the plight
Of being king and government and nation.
A road, a mile of kingdom, I am king
Of banks and stones and every blooming thing.
Patrick Kavanagh Inniskeen Road: July Evening 

Bikes on the road to Billy Brennan’s Barn, Inniskeen Photo: © Michael Fisher

This was an enjoyable visit to Patrick Kavanagh country in Inniskeen, South Monaghan. The Patrick Kavanagh Centre organised a Gathering event based on Kavanagh’s poem quoted above, Inniskeen Road: July Evening. So it was a chance to get the High Nellies back into action over a 7.5km route through and around the village. I joined the walkers. The weather was really hot, so plenty of liquid was required en route to prevent dehydration, including a welcome cup of tea at Billy Brennan’s Barn. A great idea for a festival.

Tea and a hooley at Billy Brennan’s Barn, Inniskeen Photo: © Michael Fisher