“Dear Reader, – The book, “Francis Bacon’s Nanny: A glimpse into the artist’s troubled upbringing” published on July 13th, states “Francis Bacon, at 16, departed Ireland never to return again.” This, however, contradicts with my personal experience. In the early 1980s, I frequently observed Francis Bacon strolling in the southern area of Dublin. During the summer of 1983, I had the fortunate chance to meet him and extend my hands for a handshake at the Viking Bar on Dame Street. He was accompanied by friends from Dublin. His unique appearance was hard to miss, and based on my observations, it is beyond doubt that he often visited Dublin during that time. – Best regards,
DESMOND WHITE,
Rathfarnham,
Dublin 14.”