Ever wondered what 'home life' truly means? This special collection dives deep into the very essence of it, exploring how our surroundings and experiences shape our sense of belonging.
This edition of Sunday Miscellany, broadcast on Sunday, February 8, 2026, invites you to explore a curated selection of powerful new writing and captivating music. It's a journey through the archives, celebrating 50 years of insightful contributions to Sunday Miscellany. The overarching theme? 'Home Life'.
But here's where it gets thought-provoking: How do buildings, the very structures we inhabit, influence our internal worlds? Maurice Craig's piece from 1974, titled 'Buildings', offers an early perspective. Then, we encounter the ingenious 'Trash Trap' by Treasa Brogan (from 1996), a story that might just make you rethink how we interact with our environment. Bill Hammond's 'The Windfall' (from 1998) and Mary Arrigan's 'Making a Fiery Impression' (from 1997) promise to add unique textures to our understanding of home.
And this is the part most people miss: the personal narratives that truly define home. Fachtna Ó Drisceoil's 'Dialann mo Mháthair' (from 2006) and Tommy Sands' 'Changing Times' (from 2008) offer intimate glimpses into lives lived and memories cherished. Elaine Sisson's 'Bed' (from 2004) might seem simple, but the concept of a bed is deeply intertwined with comfort, rest, and personal sanctuary.
To fully immerse yourself in these sonic landscapes, you'll need to ensure your ad-blocking extensions are temporarily disabled or that RTÉ.ie is whitelisted. This allows you to access both the radio and podcast services seamlessly.
The musical journey is equally rich, featuring:
- Haydn's Piano Sonata in E Minor, beautifully performed by the renowned Alfred Brendel.
- A captivating Sonata from Lou Harrison's Serenade for Guitar, brought to life by John Schneider.
- The vibrant Allegro from Concerto in C for Mandolin and Strings by Vivaldi, as interpreted by the Zagreb Soloists.
- Grieg's lively Rigaudon from the Holberg Suite, masterfully played by The Helsinki Strings.
- The evocative 'The Dark Island' by The Alexander Brothers.
- And 'Lionboy' by Robert Lockhart.
Now, let's ponder: In an age of digital connection, does the concept of 'home' still hold the same weight it did in the past? Or has it evolved into something entirely new? What elements do you believe are most crucial in defining a sense of home? Share your thoughts below – do you agree with the emphasis on personal narratives, or do you feel the physical environment plays a more dominant role?
