Pre-Ulyssean Dilemma Poem by Douglas Scotney
Pre-Ulyssean Dilemma
Why did Joyce call the guy Athy
When he could have called him Naas?
On a map of Kildare
Two towns, at a glance,
Rhyme with what's found
In a character's pants.
Young Dedalus shared a sickroom
With a guy nicknamed 'a thigh'.
'An arse' it could have equally been.
Why not? I'll give it a try.
First thoughts were Joyce were a shy man;
Then I guessed his mind too high class.
The truth of it is, he was tickled
By the towns of Athy and of Naas.
Just to mention Athy to an Ireman
Brings on a joke of an arse.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
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4/18/2024 8:21:02 PM # 1.0.0.1119
As usual the well considered minutia of culture and indeed Joyce has spured this investigatory musing and poetic discussion. A fine consideration and investigation, creative and provocative. Place names have long fascinated people, especially whimsical ones or humorous ones. I am reminded of Austen Tatious' 'Australiana'. Not to mention the Scily Ilse. There is certainly much scope for future literary characters from place names of the world and any prospective would be a complete and thorough Naas not to capitalise.