Seamus Heaney’s world-renowned poem From the Republic of Conscience, emphasises the centrality of conscience in the conduct of human affairs.
The poem was written in 1985 following a request from Amnesty International. Heaney sought to celebrate United Nations Day and also the work of Amnesty.
As a result of the spirit and substance of the poem, Amnesty’s highest honour is known as the Ambassador of Conscience Award.
For more, take a look at Colm O’Gorman’s reflection on Heaney’s contribution to human rights and for the text version of From the Republic of Conscience.
Source: Seamus Heaney
Year: 1985
Courtesy of Amnesty International Ireland and Colm O’Gorman.
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