‘Only the great writers are misquoted’: Dublin marathon medal has wrong Yeats quote | Books | The Guardian
20,000 Dublin Marathon finishers will receive this W. B. Yeats medal, complete with fake quote. ‹ Literary Hub
How does the controversy over the misattributed quote affect the perception of the Dublin Marathon?
The controversy over the misattributed quote affects the perception of the Dublin Marathon by adding an element of intrigue and mystery. It generates discussions and debates among participants, spectators, and the general public, creating a buzz around the event. People become curious about the quote and its connection to Yeats, and this curiosity draws attention to the marathon. The controversy may even attract individuals who were previously unfamiliar with the event, as they become interested in understanding the context and significance of the misquote. Overall, the controversy brings the Dublin Marathon into the spotlight and engages people in a broader conversation about literature, authenticity, and the power of words.
What does the inclusion of the quote on the medals say about the values of the Dublin Marathon?
The inclusion of the quote on the medals speaks volumes about the values of the Dublin Marathon. It demonstrates the organizers’ commitment to celebrating and promoting literature, even if there is some uncertainty surrounding the attribution. By featuring a quote from W.B. Yeats, a renowned poet, the marathon emphasizes the importance of art and culture in society. The quote itself, ‘There are no strangers here; Only friends you haven’t met yet,’ conveys a sense of inclusivity, friendship, and community, which aligns with the spirit of the marathon. It sends a message that the Dublin Marathon is not just a race, but an event that fosters connections and embraces participants from all walks of life. The decision to include the quote on the medals shows that the marathon values the power of words and believes in the positive impact they can have on individuals and communities.
What is the significance of Yeats’s poetry and its enduring appeal in Irish society?
Yeats’s poetry holds immense significance in Irish society and continues to have an enduring appeal for several reasons. Firstly, his poetry captures the essence of Ireland’s history, landscape, and cultural identity. Yeats incorporates elements of Irish mythology, folklore, and the beauty of the Irish countryside into his works, giving readers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Irish heritage. His poetry resonates deeply with the Irish people, as it reflects their shared experiences and provides a means of connecting with their roots. Secondly, Yeats’s poetry explores universal themes such as love, loss, and the human condition, making it accessible and relatable to readers from all backgrounds. His evocative language and imagery create an emotional connection, evoking profound emotions and contemplation. Thirdly, Yeats played a pivotal role in the Irish literary renaissance, which was a movement that sought to revive and celebrate Irish culture and literature. His contributions to this cultural resurgence solidify his status as a national figure and symbol of Irish pride. Lastly, Yeats’s enduring appeal lies in his ability to transcend time and remain relevant in contemporary society. His profound insights into human nature, spirituality, and the complexities of life continue to resonate with readers today, ensuring his poetry remains timeless and cherished. Yeats’s poetry holds a special place in Irish society, serving as a source of inspiration, cultural pride, and a touchstone for connecting with the country’s rich literary tradition.
Full summary
The Dublin Marathon is facing controversy over the design of this year's marathon medal, which features a quote from poet W.B. Yeats that is believed to be misattributed. The quote, 'There are no strangers here; Only friends you haven't met yet,' has been engraved on the bottom of the silver medals as a tribute to Yeats on the 100th anniversary of his Nobel Prize for Literature.
However, experts from the Yeats Society Sligo have stated that there is no hard evidence that Yeats ever wrote or said those words. The quote has been widely circulated online, but there is no record of it in any of Yeats's works.
Despite the controversy, the organizers of the Dublin Marathon stand by their decision to include the quote on the medals. They believe that the quote reflects the values of the marathon, which is known as 'the friendly marathon' due to its incredible volunteer support and spectator turnout.
The misattribution of the quote to Yeats may be disappointing to some, but it has sparked a larger discussion about the influence of Yeats on Irish society and the enduring appeal of his poetry. Despite the misquote, the idea of thousands of people wearing the Yeats medal in the Dublin Marathon is seen as a wonderful and amazing tribute to the poet.
In response to the controversy, the director of the Yeats Society Sligo, Susan O'Keeffe, has expressed that the decision to feature the quote on the medal was made in good faith. She is delighted that Yeats, a national poet, will be shared with over 20,000 passionate participants.
While there may be no hard proof of Yeats's connection to the quote, it cannot be denied that he is an important figure in Irish literature and a symbol of national pride. Yeats's evocative and mystical poetry has captivated readers for decades, and his contributions to the Irish literary renaissance are undeniable.
The Dublin Marathon, despite the controversy, remains a highly anticipated event with 22,500 entries. The race will take place on October 29th, and it will be started by Olympic silver medalist John Treacy, who won the race in 1993.
In the end, the misattributed quote on the Dublin Marathon medal serves as a reminder of the enduring power of literature and the impact that poets like W.B. Yeats have on our collective imagination. While the controversy may overshadow the event, it is a testament to the importance of critical thinking and ensuring the accuracy of attributions in our celebrations of great literary figures.
