In an age where conforming to norms is almost de rigueur, it is refreshing to meet a man who believes very strongly in the intrinsic value of what he does and who sticks to his own way of doing things.
I saw Pat today at one of his street pitches selling his books of poetry. I approached him and asked him politely if he’d mind my taking his portrait. At first he refused to allow me. Then we had a short chat which led him to inviting me to read a poem of his in Irish from one of his many books on display. He told me he thought it might shock me, but after reading it I told him that I thought it very moving and beautiful. Then he offered to read me another of his poems himself. At that stage he had consented to having his picture taken, and we discussed other poets he knew and admired.
I came home with the book from which we’d read the poems and with this picture of Pat, as he read his poem with great sincerity and feeling. Long may he continue to brighten the days of people who stop and talk to him.