David Connolly speaks at the International Academic Conference on Elytis

Translator David Connolly, known for his work in promoting modern Greek literature, served as the keynote speaker at the International Academic Conference on Elytis in Nicosia. Born in Sheffield to an Irish family, Connolly discussed his deep personal and intellectual connection to Greece, which dates back to his early adolescence. He highlighted the cultural similarities between the Irish and Greek peoples, citing shared traits in music, literature, and temperament. Connolly recalled being inspired by the works of authors such as Lawrence Durrell and Patrick Leigh Fermor during his youth. These influences contributed to his decision to move to Greece in 1978. During his discussion, he reflected on his experiences visiting the poet Odysseas Elytis at his residence on Skoufa Street. Additionally, he expressed concerns regarding the contemporary lack of visionary artistic figures in the modern world. The event served as a forum for discussing both the legacy of Elytis and the broader historical context of Greek literature.