Brian O'Nolan
Brian O'Nolan, better known by his pen names Flann O'Brien and Myles na gCopaleen, was an Irish novelist and playwright renowned for his innovative and humorous works that often blended reality with absurdity. He is best remembered for his novels 'At Swim-Two-Birds' and 'The Third Policeman', which showcase his unique narrative style and philosophical musings. O'Nolan's literary contributions have had a profound influence on contemporary Irish literature, and he is celebrated for his wit, creativity, and critical examination of Irish identity and culture.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Brian O’Nolan, also known as Flann O’Brien, was the brother of Micheál Ó Nualláin.
Poolbeg Lighthouse – Frank McNally on the death of a much-loved Dublin barman – The Irish Times
Ireland· 2026-01-29
Brian O'Nolan is mentioned as one of the interlinked lives with Kavanagh and Brendan Behan.
Ballet Go Backwards – Frank McNally on Patrick Kavanagh’s short-lived career as a dance librettist – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-08-19
Brian O’Nolan, also known as Flann O’Brien, was known for sitting quietly in the snug at Smyth's.
‘If we keep knocking down places like Smyth’s, soon there’ll be nothing interesting left for tourists to visit’ – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-08-04
Brian O’Nolan, known by his pseudonym Myles na gCopaleen, wrote the novel An Béal Bocht.
Poor Mouth, Rich Reputation – Frank McNally on fellow Flannorak and pioneering publican, Mick Gleeson – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-06-28
Brian O’Nolan, also known as Myles na gCopaleen, was a friend of Niall Montgomery.
Voice from the Grave – Frank McNally on a debut poetry collection from Niall Montgomery, 38 years after his death. – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-06-19
Brian O’Nolan, also known as Flann O’Brien, wrote a column for The Irish Times.
Little Museum of Dublin to reopen after year-long €4.3m makeover – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-06-02
Brian O’Nolan is noted for his career of pretending to be other people.
Farren Away - Frank McNally on how the dreaded phantom ‘Flann’ picture struck again – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-05-01
Brian O'Nolan, aka Flann O’Brien, conceived a plan for the Great Irish Novel that would include the election of a first-ever Irish pope.
Frank McNally on Flann O’Brien’s unwritten epic about the election of an Irish pope – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-04-26
