Alfred Perceval Graves

Born in Dublin in 1846, Alfred Perceval Graves grew up in a scholarly family and went on to study at Trinity College Dublin. He became known as a poet, songwriter, and folklorist, with a lasting interest in Irish literature, song, and tradition.

Graves played an important part in collecting, editing, and shaping Irish songs for new readers and singers. He is especially associated with the Irish literary revival and with books that brought folklore and verse together in an inviting, musical way.

He was also the father of poet and critic Robert Graves. Alfred Perceval Graves died in 1931, leaving behind work remembered for its warmth, lyricism, and love of Irish cultural life.