Irish poet, playwright and novelist Austin Clarke (1896-1974) was lauded by members of the Irish Literary Renaissance such as George Russell [AE] and Padraic Colum. W. B. Yeats was a strong influence on Clarke's poems and plays. Although Clarke also wrote novels and memoirs, he is best remembered for his poetry.
"Clarke, Austin, 1896-1974" Literature Online. http://lion.chadwyck.com (accessed February 20, 2007).
American Michael Begnal (1939-) was an assistant professor at Pennsylvania State University at the time the Austin Clarke letters were written.
"Michael Henry Begnal (American writer 1939-)." Biography Resource Center. http://galenet.galegroup.com (accessed February 20, 2007).
The two letters to Michael Begnal concern the Irish Literary Renaissance, Irish poetry and fiction, Clarke's writing, James Joyce, Donleavy, censorship in Ireland (including Clarke's own work), and other matters.