Dominic Behan
(22/10/1928 - 03/08/1989)
Dominic Behan (1928–1989), was an influential Irish writer, songwriter, and singer, deeply rooted in the socialist and republican traditions. Born into a literary and politically active family in Dublin, Behan’s upbringing was shaped by the nationalist fervour and cultural richness of his household. His father, Stephen Behan, was an IRA veteran of the Irish War of Independence, and his maternal uncle, Peadar Kearney, penned the Irish national anthem. His brother Brendan was a much lauded writer. Another brother, Brian was also a playwright and writer.
Dominic left school at 13 to work as a house painter, following in his father’s footsteps. Despite his early exit from formal education, his household was steeped in literature, history, and balladry, which fueled his creative aspirations. In his youth, Behan joined Fianna Éireann, the youth wing of the IRA, where he began publishing his early works. His commitment to socialist ideals also saw him actively involved in the Dublin Unemployed Movement.
In the early 1950s, Behan moved to London, where a chance encounter led to his career in broadcasting. He worked for the BBC and Radio Éireann, producing radio scripts and writing plays. His play Posterity Be Damned (1959) highlighted his disillusionment with post-independence Ireland, and his autobiographical novel Teems of Times (1961) was met with critical acclaim.
Behan was also a prolific songwriter, with over 450 songs to his name. His works, such as “The Patriot Game” and “Liverpool Lou,” became anthems for the Irish diaspora. He famously accused Bob Dylan of plagiarising “The Patriot Game” for Dylan’s “With God on Our Side,” showcasing Behan’s staunch defense of his creative rights.
In the 1960s and 1970s, Behan wrote numerous television plays, often addressing the sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland. His play The Folk Singer (1972) tackled the roots of the Troubles and was staged in Belfast during a particularly tense period. Behan was also involved in social initiatives, notably working with the Official IRA to fund a summer school aimed at bridging sectarian divides among Protestant and Catholic youths in County Meath.
Throughout his life, Behan maintained relationships with various artists and intellectuals, including Scottish poet Hugh MacDiarmid and screenwriter H. A. L. Craig. His collaborations extended to the music industry, where he helped develop acts like The Dubliners and maintained friendships with figures such as Eric Burdon and Jimi Hendrix.
Despite his success, Behan’s life was marked by personal and professional challenges, including a bitter public feud with singer Liam Clancy over the alteration of his lyrics. Behan remained committed to his belief that his work should remain intact, particularly in its political and social messages.
Dominic Behan passed away in Glasgow in 1989 from pancreatic cancer, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ireland’s most significant cultural figures of the 20th century. His ashes were scattered in Dublin, and his contributions to literature, music, and social activism continue to be remembered and celebrated.
