Gerald Dawe, a renowned poet and scholar born in Belfast, has sadly passed away at the age of 72 after a prolonged illness. He was a prolific author, having released 13 poetry collections, the most recent being Another Time (Poems 1978-2023), his ninth produced by Gallery Press. Peter Fallon, Gallery Press’ publisher, recognised him as an original spirit, appreciating his uniqueness in navigating his path.
Dawe’s works were distinctive, characterised by uncomplicated language devoid of affectations, a trait seen by many as his unique style indication. Eoin McNamee, who presides over Trinity College Dublin’s Oscar Wilde Centre, spoke warmly of Dawe’s enduring legacy. Alongside Brendan Kennelly, Dawe was a foundational figure for the Trinity Oscar Wilde Centre in 1997 – the first of its kind in Ireland. The structure he helped devise continues to remain and we are daily thankful for this portion of his legacy, McNamee quoted.
Dawe remained conscious of his beginnings, with his origins in Belfast and his Northern inheritance playing a crucial role in his poetry. He created deeply insightful poems about the ‘Northern Troubles’, despite holding onto his roots and personal history. His poetry about the West of Ireland is celebrated as some of the best portrayals of both its terrain and its inhabitants.
Whether it be his poetry or prose, Dawe’s ability to maintain a smooth continuity from one page or book to the next was extraordinarily rare. He chose to substitute grand eloquence with ordinary speech, allowing his contemplative mind to grasp the common and day-to-day aspects of life. The world mourns the loss of this insightful observer, appreciating the richness he added to it through his written works.
Dawe pursued his English studies at Ulster University, focusing his thesis on William Carleton at the institution now known as Galway University. After obtaining a lecturer position there, he published his first collection in 1978. A decade later, Dawe transitioned to TCD, rising to a professorial role and taking up the pioneering directorial post at the Oscar Wilde Centre for Irish Writing (1997-2015). He retired in 2017 but left behind a legacy that includes 10 published collections of essays and criticism. Among his editing projects, the most recent was the Cambridge Companion to Irish Poets in 2018. In confirmation of his contribution to Irish poetry, Dawe was announced as the recipient of the 2024 Lawrence O’Shaughnessy Award within the past month.
Terence Brown, a past workmate at Trinity, remarked, “Gerry was someone who was generous in spirit, an unswerving friend and a person of utmost integrity. Poetry was his life’s mission, and his inventive prowess was evident in his verses and admired teaching role.”
Dawe’s survivors include his wife Dorothea, their daughter Olwen and stepson Iarla.