Heads in High Places
A poem by Mick Foran, read by Mick. The poem addresses Anna Livia, a carved keystone figure. Anna Livia has viewed the comings and goings of Dublin Port for centuries.
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Heads in High Places
Mick Foran introduces and reads his poem 'Heads in High Places'. Dock sounds are audible in the background; this was recorded just outside the fence of a container delivery area in Dublin Port. ~ Creator: Mick Foran ~ Date: 2021Text
This poem addresses Anna Livia, a carved keystone figure. Keystone heads were carved by Edward Smyth in the late eighteenth century. Anna Livia keystone heads grace Dublin's Custom House and the warehouse at 30- 32 Sir John Rogerson’s Quay.
Anna Livia represents the River Liffey. There are 14 'Riverine Heads' in total on the Custom House building: 13 represent each river in Ireland, and one represents the Atlantic Ocean.
Anna Livia has viewed the comings and goings of Dublin Port for centuries.
With thanks to Mick Foran for this story, and to Martin Coffey for sharing his video of Mick performing the poem.