listening

All that I did today was to listen to an interview with David Monagan that lasts 52 minutes. (it is worth every second of listening to) You can access it via: http://www.wpr.org/hereonearth/archive_050122j.cfm

There are a few pieces of information that I found remarkable about the interview and would like to share with you:

1. Monagan's attachement to Ireland was due to living in New England in the sixties when everyone was very much aware of their roots. This coupled with his penchant for Irish songs and literature helped him nurture his love for the country.

2.The greatest joys of living in Ireland are the linguistic diversity and the fact that the Irish are great talkers.

3. Monagan didn't arrive to Ireland on a whim. On the contrary, he had absolved a lot of "practise steps" before moving there.

4. If you are an American abroad, you must get used to giving instant answers when asked about the American government's policy. Don't forget, though, that you are not going to convert the world if they believe that all Americans support Bush.

5. The Irish also have to get accustomed to the idea that the country is neither dying economically nor population-wise anymore.

6. Despite the fact that Ireland is a "modern" one today, the old ways can be seen beneath the layers of modernity. For instance, the business network is still based on family networks. In other words, if you don't know the right people, you'll have a hard time finding a job in Ireland as an expat.

7. Cork city was founded by the Vikings somewhere in the 8th century.

8. Hurling is a very old sport. Today it is mainly played by amateurs who don't wear helmets during the games. It bears similarity to lacrose.