
Joseph Devlin was an Irish journalist and prominent nationalist politician whose career spanned the early 20th century. Born in 1871, he became a significant figure in the Irish Parliamentary Party, serving as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons from 1902 to 1922 and again from 1929 until his death in 1934. Devlin was known for his eloquent speeches and passionate advocacy for Irish nationalism, earning him the moniker 'the duodecimo Demosthenes' from fellow politician Tim Healy, a title he embraced as a mark of respect. In addition to his work in the UK Parliament, Devlin played a crucial role in the Northern Ireland Parliament as the leader of the Nationalist Party. His efforts were instrumental in representing the interests of Irish nationalists during a tumultuous period in Irish history, marked by the struggle for independence and the division of Ireland. Through his journalism and political endeavors, Devlin left a lasting impact on Irish politics and the nationalist movement, advocating for the rights and recognition of his constituents in both the UK and Northern Ireland.
“...[T]he three greatest works are those of Homer , Dante and Shakespeare . These are closely followed by the works of Virgil and Milton .”
“To use a big word or a foreign word when a small one and a familiar one will answer the same purpose, is a sign of ignorance. Great scholars and writers and polite speakers use simple words.”
“There is an old Latin quotation in regard to the poet which says ' Poeta nascitur non fit ' the translation of which is— the poet is born, not made.”