Sir, - Kevin Myers suggested (December 12th) that we, as an Irish people, should read Rudyard Kipling who, in Mr Myers opinion, is a great poet and writer. As a result we would achieve a better sense of ourselves. He further suggested that Kipling be taught in Irish schools.
I am amazed and astonished at Mr Myers's lack of knowledge. R. Kipling's writings were dropped from the English school curriculum some 40-odd years ago on the grounds of bias. It was decided his writings were of little academic substance and value.
So now Mr Myers would like to revive a failed English writer in Irish schools. Wake up, Mr Myers. As a writer, Kipling is yesterday's man. - Yours, etc., John O'Brien,
Eaton Square, Dublin 6.