Myles Away from Dublin (Paladin Books) - Softcover

From 1940 to 1966, Flann O’Brien, under the pseudonym Myles na Gopaleen, wrote a justly famous satirical column for the 'Irish Times'. Unbeknownst to many, he also wrote for the provincial 'National and Leinster Times', adopting the persona of George Knowall, the quizzical and endlessly enquiring country cousin of the metropolitan Myles: it is these pieces that are collected in this volume. Contemplating a variety of topics from the difficulties of obtaining fresh fish ‘at a reasonable cost’ to the glorious technological wonders of the lawnmower, Knowall is one of O’Brien’s finest comic achievements.

“Genius. We won’t see his like again”
IRISH TIMES

“'Myles Away From Dublin' contains numerous monologues on such vital topics as the diameter of golf holes, the regrettable consequences of the Irish Air Corps’ lack of a helicopter and a hilariously detailed proposal for the manufacture of whiskey cubes in order to save on glass. Shameless Mickey-taking.”
OBSERVER

“'Myles Away From Dublin' is a delightful collection of wry sketches, full of quiet wisdom and curious lore, finding fun in the everyday comedies and dramas of life. Flann O’Brien has the keenest ear for language and the sharpest pen to prod a cliché until it bursts.”
TIMES LITERARY SUPPLEMENT