Book News
Writer Christopher Nolan dies, aged 43
Friday 20 February 2009
Christopher Nolan published his first book, 'Damburst of Dreams', at the age of 15 and went on to win the Whitbread Book of the Year in 1988 for his novel 'Under the Eye of the Clock'.
He published the novel 'The Banyan Tree' in 1999.
Christopher Nolan had severe cerebral palsy and the only part of his body he could control was his head; he wrote using a pointer attached to his head.
He received numerous awards including an Honorary Doctorate of Letters in the UK and the medal of excellence from the United Nations Society of Writers.
The author was awarded a Person of the Year award in Ireland in 1988.
Christopher Nolan is survived by his parents, Joseph and Bernadette Nolan, and his sister, Yvonne.
The Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism, Martin Cullen, has expressed his deepest sympathy to the family.
Minister Cullen said: "We can draw inspiration from Christopher Nolan - with grace and courage, and with the support of his family, he never gave up and he never gave in. His bold creativity has ensured a written legacy which includes a volume of poetry and short stories and an illustrious Whitbread Book of the Year award for his autobiography 'Under the Eye of the Clock'."
Fine Gael Arts Spokesperson, Olivia Mitchell TD, also paid tribute saying that he was an inspiration to millions and that his influence will extend well beyond his richly creative literary works.
Mary Cloake, Director of the Arts Council, said: "Christopher Nolan was a remarkably talented writer, and made history on numerous occasions throughout his life and career. 'Under the Eye Of The Clock', displayed a brilliant command of language and voice, and secured Nolan's place as a major literary writer when he was only 21. Nolan has made an invaluable contribution to literary and cultural life and the Arts Council extends its condolences to his friends and family."
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