The life of one of Ireland's most important writers.

The fascinating life of Ben Kiely, novelist and short story writer, and major figure in 20^th century Irish literature. Great friend of Brendan Behan, and enemy of Censorship, life long opponent of Partition and outspoken at the Troubles arising from it, journalist and narrator on RTE radio. With the help of his friends and contempory artists Seamus Heaney, John Montague, Tom Kilroy, Val Mulkerns, Colum McCann, and Steven McKenna, all of whom appear to tell the story of Ben’s life and work, we go on a journey through half a century of unique writing by a unique man.

From his childhood in Omagh, his years in the press and broadcasting, the world of the Dublin literary bar circle of the 1950s and 60s which included Patrick Kavanagh, Austin Clarke, R.M. Smyllie, Francis McManus and Flann O'Brien, a special Ireland within Ireland, to the impact of his work and his generous and sociable personality, and his contribution to Irelands rich literary world.

In association with RTE.<>