Rhyme and reason — Alison Healy on Longfellow’s Wreck of the Hesperus
How did the wreck of an obscure US boat gain such a foothold in our lexicon?
Sharpened pens – Alison Healy on the cattier side of writers
Writers seem to relish eviscerating their fellow artists whenever they get a chance
‘Live in a house before you renovate - you learn so much about how it does or doesn’t function’
A fast-tracked renovation in Dublin’s Dundrum has delivered a warm, inviting and bright family home. And some clever upstyling tips have added a personal touch
Head over heels – Alison Healy on cupid’s arrow
While the ship was going nowhere, it was full steam ahead for a love affair
‘Fellas who were taking the piss are now looking for tips’: at home in the garden with Ireland and Munster rugby star Peter O’Mahony
Ireland and Munster star enjoys tending to his 2,000sq ft garden when not in the ruck. But will his green fingers grow beyond a hobby?
Coughing up: Alison Healy on the strange and surprising world of online marketplaces
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s half-eaten lozenge is one of many curious items that have been advertised
‘Dressing above her station’: Alison Healy on gowns and garda skirts
Men have been policing women’s clothes since Adam looked askance at Eve’s fig leaf
Paws for thought – Alison Healy on writers and their pets
At various stages in his life, Byron kept monkeys, goats, a crocodile, eagles, horses and badgers as pets
Rathmines renovation: ‘I never thought I’d want a gold island in my kitchen but I love it’
Palmerston prestige: A dark green diningroom, sunken patio and gold kitchen island are just some of the stand-out design features of this stylish Dublin 6 renovation
We need to introduce licences for people who wish to watch movies in public
Two hours beside a crisp-munching, cola-slurping loud talker
Never miss a trick – Alison Healy on the endangered art of jig-acting
Some of my Dublin compatriots favour cod-acting over jig-acting
‘We don’t plan to move again’: Mount Merrion home renovation creates oasis of calm
Homeowners engaged architect and designer Rachel Carmody to renovate the house they bought in 2000
Last days at sea: Alison Healy on retiring to the high seas
The Fair Deal scheme should be extended to include cruise ships
A woman of true willpower: Alison Healy’s modest proposal for solving Fair Deal woes
An Irishwoman’s Diary: Department of Finance mandarins busy totting up budget figures should think beyond the horizon when deciding on elderly care