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The legacy of Moira O’Neill

Moira O’Neill whose real name is “Agnes Shakespeare Higgins” was a very popular Irish Canadian poet. She is best known for her work inspired by her background in Co. Antrim. She was born in Mauritius but grew up in the Glens area, very much seeing herself as a ‘Glenswoman’. Moira began to publish her work in 1892, with several poems in Blackwood’s Magazine, one of the leading British review publications during that time. This was magnificent achievement for anyone but particularly an Irish woman during these times. She then when on to write things such as ‘The Elf-Errant”; a children’s novel and ‘An Easter vacation’. This was a very well accredited book receiving many plaudits. Poet Laureate John Masefield would describe it as “a happy and witty book, containing one of the best studies known to me of a high spirited, finely natured boy". This shows how well respected Moira was as a writer and how well known her pieces were around the world, having people such as Masefield appreciating her work. When Moira and her family returned from Canada to Ireland, her ‘Songs ‘were starting to become more popular and popular. Apart from just selling very well, they also attracted the attention of some very prominent musicians who were looking for pieces of text and were very impressed by what Moira had done with these ones in particular. These pieces went on to be appreciated and used by many in the music industry. These are just some examples of the great work in which Moira produced. From writing very well recognised books appreciated by some well-regarded authors, to having musicians wanting to use her work, Moira was very well known for her astounding work during her time. Moira died on the 22nd of January 1955, having left a huge mark on not only Irish literature, but also left a huge legacy, in being a very successful Irish, female writer (during these times was far from normal), which was appreciated by many for what she achieved, and will be for many years to come.