Raharney writer's book 'a celebration of everything between life and death'

When Ian McLoughlin from Raharney received a standing ovation after delivering the eulogy at his mother’s funeral, he did not realise it would be the start of a journey that would lead to the publication of his book, What Lies Beyond.

A “celebration of everything between life and death”, What Lies Beyond is a collection of Ian’s free verse poems written over a period of five years. It features an abstract painting by Ian on the cover, and each poem is paired with an image of a companion piece of art specially created by Orla Ryan.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, Ian says that while he has always enjoyed painting and drawing, if hadn’t spoken at his mother Collette’s funeral, he probably would never have thought about writing a book.

“It happened by chance. I had no intention of really doing it. My mam had been sick at home and we were minding her until her death. I said I wanted to write something to honour her life and at her funeral Mass, the priest allowed me to read it from the altar.

“She was a well-known woman and the church was totally full. To my surprise everybody just stood up [after he delivered the eulogy] and wouldn’t stop applauding. My sisters had to photocopy the piece because lots of people were looking for a copy of it.

“I was blown away by that and then I decided to just continue to more or less to honour her life. It’s a celebration of everything between death and life, how we deal with our feelings, emotions, thoughts. It’s really just about life and my little take on everything.”

Born and raised in Dublin, Ian has fond memories of his childhood visits to Finea, the home village of his late father Eamon and his grandfather Harry, one of the area’s first gardaí following the War of Independence.

“I spent my time in the bogs drinking bottles of tea with them as a child. My father had an aunt, Tess, in Finea and she was the head school teacher. She had a little cottage and I remember going into the old house as a little boy and the big turf fires and the warm welcome we used to get. I have very fond memories of those times in Finea.”

As a younger man Ian spent seven years working for a film animation company in Dublin, before starting a successful import export business with his wife Oonagh. They moved to Raharney over 20 years ago.

Now retired he likes to travel and, along with writing, loves to paint landscapes and skies.

After spending five years working on his book, Ian says he is thrilled to be sharing his written thoughts with the world.

He is also grateful for all the support he has received from his family and friends.

“I was delighted with the finished product, but the words are up for everybody else to decide,” Ian said.

Dear Ones

Do not grieve for me, I’ve never left your side

It’s my physical image, and presence

You formed attachment to

This is what you grieve

Please, open your eyes

I am always, by your side

I am everything, and everywhere

I am, the buds of early May

The high blossom of summer

The leaves that fall in autumn

The first snowflake of winter

Know me in all that is

For now, I forsake my physical form

The image, you remember so well

It was just a vehicle of convenience

My true essence, rests in your soul

Look beyond the image, you think of as me

Look beyond the image, you think of as you

They are not, who we truly are

Our bodies, are a means of physical function

In stillness, you will come to know me

Never forget who you are

Think it not strange, it’s no coincidence

That gentle breeze, brushing your face

That shadow figure, catching your eye

That thud, you heard at midnight

There is no great mystery

I sent you gifts of reassurance

I want you to know, I am ever so near

I have not forgotten, nor abandoned you

Remember, it’s the physical image

We form attachment to

A different shape and form, in each new life

Your true essence never changes

Look within, know who you truly are

We shall meet again, in future lives and journeys

Inseparable in spirit, we share the one soul

Do not grieve for me, I’ve never left your side

• Ian McLoughlin