The title originates from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s poem. The play is about growing up in a small Irish society, and is told by three young men: Joe, the youngest, is tired of school and misses adventure. His brother Frank works fulltime on the genius plan which is going to solve all the family’s problems. Meanwhile, their friend Ray is a dissipated senior lecturer who is dating their sister Carmel. This play was made into a movie called “Saltwater”, directed by the author. McPherson received The Evening Standard Award for ‘Most Promising Playwright’ 1997; Outer Critics Circle Award for ‘Best New Play’ 1998-1999 and an Olivier Award for ‘Best New Play’ 1999.
