Lecture on James Joyce’s “Finnegan’s Wake,” by John O’Connor

Join us for an educational and entertaining exploration of one of the most complex literary works of all time, James Joyce’s Finnegans Wake. In this engaging presentation, we will delve into a fascinating section of the text, from page 300 to the top of page 302 (Book II chapter II of the volume), within the chapter titled “The Study Hour.”
The scene unfolds in the inn of the main character, HCE, where he drinks with his customers while his children—twins Shem and Sean and daughter Issy—study upstairs. Their lessons, brimming with humor and wit, touch upon the great scholarly pursuits of humanity: astronomy, mathematics, reincarnation, political progress, the philosopher’s stone, and more. Through Shem’s playful storytelling, these lessons are delivered with a quintessentially Irish blend of intellect and humor.

The discussion will highlight how Shem and Sean transform into planets while their audience becomes fixed stars, creating a cosmic metaphor that intertwines humor with historical and philosophical insight. We will also explore Sean’s mathematical endeavors, his use of trigonometry and quaternions, and his application of historical figures such as the Earl of Godolphin to navigate the complex legacy of Cromwell and its impact on Ireland.

This presentation promises to entertain, educate, and inspire participants to embrace the light of Joyce’s genius. Attendees will perhaps see Finnegans Wake in a new and illuminating way.

Open your mind to the brilliance of James Joyce and join us for this thought-provoking journey through Finnegans Wake.
John O’Connor has lectured on this book for about twenty-five years and finds it edifying, inspiring, profound, and sometimes frustrating. John has a B.A. from Bucknell University in English literature. He explains, “Some say philosophy is discovering what isn’t in the Wake. But as Joyce liked to say in risu veritas – in laughter there is truth. The Wake is world history in the abstract written in puns and at least sixty-six languages. I have deciphered some of it, and I like to share what I’ve found with others.”
Registration is required: www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/category/adultlib/

April 12, 2025
11:00-12:30 PM
free

Gunn Memorial Library
5 Wykeham Road
Washington, CT 06793
https://www.gunnlibrary.org/calendar/category/adultlib/2025-04/