I will be there in spite of death
For ink speaks and paper speaks.
I will be there in the sorrow-free time
When music plays at wedding feast.
This is the final stanza from a poem written by the west Limerick poet and translator, Michael Hartnett (58), for his son, Niall, then aged seven. It was recited in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Newcastle West, during concelebrated Mass as part of Father Frank O'Dea's homily at Mr Hartnett's funeral on Saturday. Father O'Dea said "the poet's memory, his insights, his wisdom and his ideas will be kept alive through his poetry and through his words".
Fellow poet Gabriel Fitzmaurice, from Moyane, Co Kerry, also paid tribute to his friend at the Mass. He said Mr Hartnett had a major influence on his writing.
At the graveside another poet and friend, Nuala Ni Dhomnaill, recited a poem in Irish which she wrote on learning of his death. Dr Patrick O'Connor of the University of Limerick read from the poem Maiden Street, and retired schoolmaster Mr Des Healy joined in the tributes.
Traditional Irish airs were played on the flute by Michael Collins, a young local musician.
The church was crowded and the gathering included poets and writers from all over Ireland. Among those present were Mr Peter Fallon, publisher; Mr Padraig O Snodaigh, Coisceim; Mr Brendan Flynn, Clifden and the Arts Council; Mr Michael Coady, Carrick-on-Suir; and Mr Theo Dorgan.
The chief mourners were the poet's daughter Lara (Australia); son Niall (Indiana University); his partner Ms Angela Liston; his sister Mary, and four brothers: Gerard, Denis, John and Billy, former mayor of Milton Keynes, England.
A memorial Mass for Mr Hartnett will be held in St Michael's Church, Emmet Road, Inchicore, Dublin, next Thursday at 7.30 p.m. Mr Hartnett lived in Inchicore for some years and wrote an acclaimed series of haiku (poems 17 syllables in length) there. The Mass was arranged at the request of people who knew him when he lived in the area. The organisers say it will include a reading from his works, and music. All who wish to commemorate Mr Hartnett are welcome to attend, the organisers say.