PHOTOGRAPHED ON A REALLY WET DAY
This poignant war memorial, located at Canal Square in Kilkenny, features an inscription of lines from Joseph Plunkett’s renowned poem, “I See His Blood Upon the Rose.” The memorial itself stands as a quiet testament on the banks of the River Nore.
The Inscription:
“I see His blood upon the ROSE
And in the STARS the Glory of His eyes”
Initially, my attempts to photograph this memorial were hampered by the number of people present. However, on my return journey to Dublin, the weather was inclement, and the streets were notably quiet. This provided a perfect opportunity, on my way to the railway station, to capture satisfactory images of this small yet compelling tribute.
The Tragic Love Story of Grace Gifford and Joseph Plunkett
The narrative of Grace Gifford and Joseph Plunkett is widely recognised as one of Ireland’s most tragic love stories. Their profound love for Ireland, coupled with shared ideals and spirituality, brought them together. Their marriage took place in Kilmainham Gaol, a mere seven hours before Joseph’s execution, a life tragically cut short by the violence of the 1916 Easter Rising. Their unwavering love for each other and their country remains an enduring legacy.
“I See His Blood Upon The Rose” by Joseph Mary Plunkett
I see his blood upon the rose
And in the stars the glory of his eyes,
His body gleams amid eternal snows,
His tears fall from the skies.
I see his face in every flower;
The thunder and the singing of the birds
Are but his voice—and carven by his power
Rocks are his written words.
All pathways by his feet are worn,
His strong heart stirs the ever-beating sea,
His crown of thorns is twined with every thorn,
His cross is every tree.
About Joseph Mary Plunkett:
Joseph Mary Plunkett (21 November 1887 – 4 May 1916) was a prominent Irish republican, poet, and journalist. He played a significant role as a leader in the 1916 Easter Rising and was one of the seven signatories to the Proclamation of the Irish Republic.
Grace Gifford’s Unwavering Devotion:
In his will, Joseph Plunkett bequeathed all his possessions to his widow, Grace Gifford. However, his parents regrettably refused to honour his wishes. Grace remained a resolute nationalist following her husband’s death, enduring three months of imprisonment in Kilmainham Gaol in 1923. She never remarried and lived for 39 years after Joseph’s execution, a testament to her enduring love and commitment.