I’m Helene, soon-to-be bookseller and owner of Elk Books.
I was born in Belfast and I now live in Warrenpoint, a small town south of Newry, overlooked by the beautiful Mournes and Cooley Mountains. I love this part of Ireland and I’m grateful to call it home, after a few stops along the way in England and Ireland. There’s something inspiring about the light and landscape and it is no surprise that there is a strong literary heritage to feed the soul of any bookworm, aspiring artist, or writer.
And yes, I’m one of those book addicts with writerly ambitions. I’ve dabbled in short stories, poetry and flash fiction. Creative writing and poetry events at the bookshop? Now, doesn’t that sound like a plan!
What's in a name?
And why Elk Books?
Call it a flash of inspiration, sparked by the sunlight glinting on the Irish Elk steel sculpture – a landmark on the road into town. Not only is this majestic giant associated with the natural history of Ireland, but references to it are found throughout Irish literature, folklore and poetry.
For more information on the Irish Elk and the beautiful Warrenpoint Elk sculpture by Claire Bigger, visit:
https://www.visitwarrenpoint.com/the-irish-elk-the-ice-air-and-steel/
They’ve taken the skeleton
Of the Great Irish Elk
Out of the peat, set it up
An astounding crate full of air
From Bogland, Seamus Heaney, Door Into the Dark, 1969