Tipperary man releases new poetry collection to great local reception

Nenagh poet Pat Mulcahy has released a striking new collection of poetry, A Bottle of Smoke, a work that draws deeply from his personal journey while offering readers a balance of humour, warmth, and reflection. Known already for his previous poetry book and children’s writing, Mulcahy’s latest offering stands out for its ability to transform time spent undergoing kidney dialysis into a source of creative energy.

The poems range from playful vignettes about everyday life, nurses, parking tickets, or hens in the back garden, to more poignant reflections in pieces like Why Did I Start, Soul Mate, and Mother.

Mulcahy’s lifelong love of the GAA also weaves its way throughout the collection, with heartfelt tributes to All-Ireland winners. Remarkably, all of the winners featured in the book turned out to be All-Ireland champions in 2025, lending the collection an almost prophetic touch.

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What shines through most clearly, however, is Mulcahy’s ability to connect. His voice carries an honesty that captures both the light-hearted moments and the weight of lived experience.

Whether evoking laughter, stirring nostalgia, or moving readers to tears, his poetry speaks with deep sensitivity to the people, places, and emotions that surround him.

All proceeds from A Bottle of Smoke will go to the Irish Kidney Association, making the book not only a literary achievement but also a fundraiser for a vital cause. Mulcahy himself is encouraging readers to consider the book as a meaningful Christmas gift, with funds directly supporting families affected by kidney illness.

The new collection can be purchased from ‘JKC’s’ in Nenagh for €15 now.

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