Mary ‘on the cusp’ with latest book of poetry
RECENTLY, I caught up with short story writer and poet, the vivacious Mary Cotter, native of Tipperary, now living in Ferns with husband Richie. ‘I am blessed to have a wonderful view of Tincurry Hill and Mount Leinster, which are both inspiration and motivation for my poetry and prose,’ said Mary.
Mary has been writing poetry almost all her life, beginning at 12 years of age. ‘I always had to fit it around my family life and my career, but since retiring to Tincurry I have been writing constantly, finally able to devote quality time to it.’
Mary writes about ordinary things and people – her first book of poems in 2015 was a tribute to her late parents and included many childhood memories. ‘After that I decided to bite the bullet and attempt a novel,’ said Mary, ‘ but the canvas proved too narrow so I began writing another novel. This one also got stuck.’
Then in January 2016 Mary began to write short stories, a genre that seemed to suit her well, and in November launched her first book of short stories ‘An Eye on Myself’.
‘The field to the side of our house is planted every spring. I marked the passing year by observing the early blades, the growing green and the slow turning to gold. With the harvest there is a shift. Mother Earth has completed her task and it is time to gather in. As I am now 65, in a certain sense that is what I am doing. I am gathering in. Nature is a great teacher. Clouds teach us lightness. Wind shows us strength. The earth is rich and productive,’ said Mary.
Mary will launch her second book of poems ‘Cusp’ at the Presentation Centre this Friday September 29 at 7.15pm and all are welcome. Do come along and help Mary celebrate her wonderful new life as a writer and poet.