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Product Description
A paperback first edition, Anvil Press, 1965, of Brinsley Macnamara's The Clanking of Chains, first published in 1919- 20 by Maunsel. Originally titled as The Clanking of Chains - A Story of Sinn Féin.
John Weldon, who used the penname Brinsley Macnamara, from Delvin, Co Westmeath, was the author of the classic study of small town Ireland, The Valley of Squinting Windows. This novel is set in a simiar small town setting, and explores the rise of nationalism against the backdrop of 1912-1916 and its aftermath.
Michael Dempsey, always somewhat of an outcast in Ballycullen, gains some popularity when he plays the part of Robert Emmet in a local play. However, support for him does not translate into support for his cause, Sinn Fein. He soon realizes that the funds raised by the production will go toward renovating the local town hall into a club for Ballycullen’s elite.
Soon it is rumoured that Orangemen, determined to fight vehemently against Home Rule, have begun arming themselves, and the men of Ballycullen are quick to make plans to defend themselves. Shaun MacDermott arrives from Dublin and gives an impassioned speech, which becomes a catalyst for the marching of the local men as part of the Irish Volunteers. Michael begins to wonder how it is possible that his neighbours can be so resolved to fight against fellow Irishmen but simultaneously so unwilling to fight against the British. He also laments that he cannot be part of the Rising in Dublin because he must remain in Ballycullen in order to provide for his mother and sister. He does not share these feelings with many people, though, since they would be vastly unpopular in Ballycullen; most of the town’s population view the rebellion as a needless tragedy.
Condition - Yellowing to page block, light bumping and creasing to corners, HEAVY tanning to pages, general ageing and wear throughout. However, binding tight, no inscriptions.
