Donncha Ó Céileachair facts for kids

Donncha Ó Céileachair (born 1918, died 1960) was an important writer who wrote in the Irish language. He worked with his sister, Síle Ní Chéileachair, to publish a popular book of short stories. He was also known for writing biographies and travel books.

About Donncha Ó Céileachair

Donncha was born in Cúil Aodha in West Cork, Ireland. He grew up speaking Irish at home. He became a teacher after studying at De La Salle College in Waterford. He taught at a Christian Brothers school in Dublin.

Later, the Education Department asked him to help create an English-Irish dictionary. This big dictionary was published in 1959. Before going back to teaching, he also worked for the Irish Placenames Commission. This group helps name places in Ireland.

Donncha earned a special degree (an MA) from University College Dublin. His studies focused on the Irish language spoken in Muskerry. In 1952, he married Eistir Ní Éalaithe, who was also a teacher. They had four children together. Sadly, Donncha passed away unexpectedly on July 21, 1960. He is buried in Glasnevin Cemetery in Dublin.

Donncha's Writing Journey

Donncha Ó Céileachair was a very active and respected writer. He first learned about writing by helping his father. His father was a native Irish speaker and Donncha helped him write his life story.

Donncha also took a writing course in Cúil Aodha. This course was taught by the famous writer Daniel Corkery. In 1955, Donncha and his sister Síle published a book together. It was a collection of 14 short stories called Bullaí Mhártain. The stories were set in both the countryside and cities. People really liked this book for its clear and easy-to-read style.

Biographies and Travel Writing

In 1958, Donncha Ó Céileachair worked with Proinsias Ó Conluain. They wrote a biography called An Duinníneach. This book was about Father Patrick Dinneen. He was a very important person in the Gaelic Revival. This was a time when people worked to bring back the Irish language and culture. Their book was seen as very important. It showed a lot about the social, political, and literary life of that time.

Donncha also wrote Dialann Oilithrigh. This book was about his trip to Rome. Critics said it was not a typical religious travel book. Instead, it was a lively and stylish diary. It gave readers a clear look into Donncha's thoughts and feelings.

He also wrote articles for different newspapers. Donncha translated several works into Irish as well. Sometimes, he worked with the original authors on these translations.