Chris Matthews
Chris Matthews (1946-2008)

Chris Matthews, owner and patriarch of the Poet, died recently. He lives on in our memories of his generosity, irreverent sense of humour, lust for life, and indomitable spirit.

To most he was the charismatic personality behind the bar- the personality of the Poet. He had a quick wit and spared it on no-one. To many others he was a dear friend and compatriot. One thing he certainly was was a man with a big heart and a broad mind.

Chris led a full life; as a paratrooper in the elite 508th Airborne Division of the Army , as a political organizer, a successful playwright and publican. Like Pádraig Pearse, Chris was a playwright, and a committed socialist in the tradition of Connolly. He had deep love of life and genuine concern for his fellow man.

The scope of his life, from New Jersey to California, from the army to the stage and the pub to the sweatlodge, was as grand as his stature. With his booming voice he had the rare ability to silence the pub when it was crowded, as he did one Thanksgiving evening when the lights in the pub were turned off, candles were lit, and Chris denounced American imperialism, insisted no human life was less valuable than another's, then led everyone in a heartfelt rendition of America the Beautiful. That is my favourite memory of Chris.