Ernie O'Malley (1897–1957)

Any serious student of the Irish War of Independence will want a copy of this book in their collection. O'Malley gives a vivid and detailed description of his motives for enlisting in the IRA and of his accounts as an Organiser and as a Brigade Commander. Killings that he takes part in and torture that he receives are each described in a deadpan and matter-of-fact fashion and it is for the reader to form their opinions based on the account. The book is also highly readable, which it must be said, is an exception for similar autobiographical accounts by other participants. It deserves both the respect and recognition that it has received to date.… (mais)

3149. On Another Man's Wound, by Ernie O'Malley (read Jan 17, 1999) I have wanted to read this book ever since Aug 25, 1984, when I read Six Days to Shake an Empire and its author, Charles Duff, called On Another Man's Wound "the best account written by an actual participant" in the Irish revolt. O'Malley was a leader in the fight and some of his book is highly dramatic--torture, executions, etc. But much of the book dealt with his traipsing around Ireland organizing anti-British acts, and it was not super-interesting. I'd prefer a real history, not this type of personal narrative.… (mais)