Despite the rain, the skies eventually cleared, casting light over Dalkey’s winding lanes and storied venues as the 2025 Dalkey Book Festival unfolded in all its vibrant and eclectic glory. Over four days, the coastal village became a stage for some of the world’s most celebrated writers, thinkers, and cultural provocateurs in a celebration of literature, politics, history, science, and the art of asking better questions.

Cantor Fitzgerald Ireland was proud to once again support a weekend of standout events that challenged assumptions and connected audiences with bold, timely ideas.

The weekend opened with some great events including a compelling session on Roger Casement, the Irish humanitarian, revolutionary, and fierce international campaigner for justice. Famously described by his hangman at Pentonville Prison as “the bravest man I have ever had the displeasure to walk up the scaffold,” Casement’s extraordinary life was explored by John Banville, Neil Jordan, and Caroline Erskine. Their wide-ranging discussion brought fresh nuance to a story already rich with historical complexity. Whispers of a potential film project, possibly involving U2, added an extra layer of intrigue to an already captivating session.

Saturday shifted focus to the present with “Unpredictable, Unbound, and Unhinged: The USA,” a lively and provocative panel that explored the aftermath of the 2024 US election and the current state of American politics. Featuring James Shapiro, Paul Muldoon, Simon Kuper, and Lionel Shriver, and chaired by Mark Little, the discussion was candid, sharp, and at times heated. With perspectives ranging from literary to journalistic, the panel dissected the cultural fragmentation and political volatility shaping the American narrative and its global influence.

Throughout the weekend, the festival pulsed with energy and curiosity. Nobel laureates, debut authors, historians, poets, and scientists filled venues large and small. From intimate cafés to historic churches, each space offered something unique, with new ideas, unexpected conversations, and lasting inspiration. Families joined in as well, with nature walks and children’s workshops contributing to the festival’s relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

A clear highlight came on Sunday, when the bestselling author and ex-Wall Street and Silicon Valley legend, Michael Lewis, took to the stage. Known for turning complex institutions into compelling narratives, Lewis spoke about the often-overlooked world of public service and the quiet brilliance of the civil servants who keep governments running behind the scenes. With his signature blend of wit and insight, he offered a moving portrait of those who work without recognition yet make an extraordinary impact. It was a thoughtful and resonant close to the weekend, and a powerful reminder of storytelling’s enduring role in shaping how we understand the world.

As always, it all wrapped up at Finnegan’s, where glasses were raised, thoughts were shared and promises made to read at least half the books discussed.

At Cantor Fitzgerald Ireland, we believe in the power of ideas to bring people together and move conversations forward. The Dalkey Book Festival remains a shining example of what happens when storytelling, intellect, and community come together in one extraordinary place.

We are proud to support this remarkable festival for the second year running and look forward to many more stories to come.

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