* William Butler Yeats: A Nobel Prize winner, Yeats is considered one of the most important poets of the 20th century, renowned for his intricate language, mystical themes, and exploration of Irish mythology. His lyric poems like "The Lake Isle of Innisfree" and "Sailing to Byzantium" are classics.
* W.B. Yeats: A Nobel Prize winner, Yeats is considered one of the most important poets of the 20th century, renowned for his intricate language, mystical themes, and exploration of Irish mythology. His lyric poems like "The Lake Isle of Innisfree" and "Sailing to Byzantium" are classics.
* Seamus Heaney: Another Nobel Prize winner, Heaney is celebrated for his evocative language, exploration of rural life, and powerful imagery. His lyric poems like "Digging" and "Mid-Term Break" are deeply moving and resonate with readers.
* Patrick Kavanagh: Known for his sharp wit, earthy language, and honest portrayal of rural Irish life, Kavanagh's lyric poems like "The Great Hunger" and "On Raglan Road" are powerful and deeply human.
* Eavan Boland: A contemporary poet, Boland is praised for her exploration of female identity, domesticity, and Irish history. Her lyric poems like "The Journey" and "The Emigrant" are striking for their honesty and evocative language.
Ultimately, the "greatest" lyric poet in Ireland is a matter of personal preference and interpretation. Each of these poets, and many others, contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of Irish lyric poetry.