Today marks a significant milestone in the literary history of Limerick as the city celebrates the centenary of the birth of Aubrey Thomas De Vere, a distinguished poet, critic, and essayist. Born at the ancestral Curragh Chase mansion in County Limerick exactly one hundred years ago, De Vere’s legacy resonates not only as a poet of cultured grace but also as a writer whose prose displayed a unique blend of simplicity and fine discriminatory power.
De Vere’s journey through life unfolded against the backdrop of pivotal changes in the religious and political landscape of the nation. Entering Trinity College in 1832, he spent seven transformative years there. A defining moment occurred in 1839 when he embarked on a journey to Oxford and Cambridge Universities, followed by a visit to the Eternal City, where the influence of Cardinal Newman left an indelible mark on his spiritual exploration.
His path towards Catholicism, culminating in his reception into the Catholic Church in Avignon in November 1857, was a profound transformation. This spiritual journey was influenced not only by his studies but also by the conversion of figures like Manning, reflecting the dynamic religious environment of the time.
De Vere’s circle of friends included luminaries from various fields, such as Sir William Rowan Hamilton, Cardinal Newman, Lord Coleridge, Sir Henry Taylor, and William Ewart Gladstone. His exceptional sweetness of character, dignified demeanour, and charming manner endeared him to these influential figures, making him a respected voice in both literary and political circles.
During the famine years in Ireland, De Vere exhibited a practical and vigorous interest in Irish politics. His pamphlets on public issues and the notable work “English Misrule and Irish Misdeeds” drew praise from critics like Carlyle and John Stuart Mill. In addition to his political engagement, De Vere’s poetic contributions held a special place for Irish readers, notably the series of poems titled “Inisfail.” This collection vividly depicted pivotal events in Irish history, offering a poetic tableau that was both powerful and spiritually evocative.
“Inisfail” was a unique endeavour, where De Vere crafted representative poems for each significant epoch in a particular period of Irish history. Whether celebrating victories or mourning defeats, he presented Ireland’s history in a captivating series of tableaux, creating a poetic narrative that remains a testament to his literary prowess.
His extensive body of work, spanning several decades, reflects a remarkable literary journey. From “The Fall of Rosa” in 1842 to his involvement in resolving the Inch University question just before his death in 1902, De Vere’s contributions were diverse and enduring. His writings encompassed various collections, including “The Search after Proserpine,” “May Carols,” “Irish Odes,” and “The Legends of St. Patrick,” showcasing the breadth of his literary exploration.
Aubrey De Vere’s views on death, expressed beautifully in lines composed towards the end of his life, capture the essence of his philosophy: “Who mourns, though youth and strength go by? Fresh leases invest the vernal term. Fresh air will drown my latest sigh.” His departure in 1902, at the age of eighty-eight, marked the end of a prolific literary era, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with readers.
As Limerick commemorates the centenary of Aubrey De Vere’s birth, the city celebrates not only a remarkable poet but a literary luminary whose contributions have enriched the cultural tapestry of Ireland and beyond.
Irish Independent – Saturday 10 January 1914
