only kings and heroes – john steinbeck

This informal talk by Dr Philip McGowan will explore the writing of John Steinbeck, with particular emphasis on how his Irish ancestry influenced the content of his creative work. He will also be delving into the character of Samuel Hamilton from East of Eden, based both in name and character on Steinbeck’s maternal grandfather from Ballykelly.

Dr McGowan is Senior Lecturer in American Literature at Queen’s University Belfast with interests in twentieth-century American poetry, contemporary American fiction, the American nineteenth century, westerns, crime fiction, as well as in film, most recently the American movies of Alfred Hitchcock.

The talk is followed by a series of readings by the wonderful locally based Jane Ross Writers Group. Please see the individual event listing for further information.

Admission is free but places must be booked in advance.