The Lost and Early Writings of James Connolly 1889-1898, edited by Irish historian Conor McCabe, reintroduces us to the life and work of the most outstanding Marxist revolutionary that this part of the world has ever produced.
Through dozens of letters and articles from early on in Connolly’s political life, we are treated to his inspiring example of self-education and dedication to the cause of socialism.
Connolly’s straight-talking but literate style comes through on every page. It is clear the man was an artist when it came to the often difficult task of taking Marxist theory and putting it in words that could be grasped by the average worker – with the delicacy and full meaning required to truly explain the fundamental ideas of socialism.
Many of the texts were written by Connolly while living in Scotland, leading McCabe to implore us to “take him back!” as a Scottish revolutionary as much as an Irish one.
Speaking at a Glasgow book launch in December last year, McCabe said he hopes that this collection will renew interest in Connolly’s writings – particularly their sharply anti-colonial, revolutionary character, which he contrasts to the reformism of both the Irish and British labour movements today.
Through his rigorous research, McCabe has rescued much of Connolly’s life’s work from obscurity, and from the distortions introduced by later historians and opportunist politicians.
The collection revels in Connolly’s intellect and humour; his political talents and personality. It is an essential addition to the reading list of today’s revolutionary agitators.
The Lost and Early Writings of James Connolly 1889-1898 is available from Iskra Books and other booksellers.
