The Republic of Ted - Eddie Gibbons

The compilation of this book, Eddie Gibbon's second volume of poetry, was sadly interrupted by his father's death in February 2003.
Like many bereaved people before him, his reaction was to 'write it out'. The result is an eloquent extended elegy to his father which forms the core of the collection.
Virginia Ironside (in her book You'll Get Over It) states 'You have no power over the death but you have power over the story'.

"Amusing and poignant."

Virginia Ironside


"Genuinely moving and remarkably brave... evokes pathos, humour, regret and anger... An articulate, powerful book."

Scotland on Sunday Review



From the Publisher

Eddie Gibbons has created a powerful set of stories around his father's memory, his life and his legacy. The Republic of Ted is a deeply moving tribute to a father and a friend, full of the humour and linguistic virtuosity his readers have come to expect.

Reviews of Eddie Gibbon's previous book Stations of the Heart

"A vivid human achievement. . . I'm moved by the [poet's] loyalties to people and places. . . 'Portrait of Ana Dali' is one of the best British poems of recent times. A masterpiece."
Les Murray

"stern, playful, romantic and brave"
Todd McEwen

"comic, exuberant, lyrical, unsentimental, candid - a lively and stimulating collection"
Brian McCabe