2010-05-042010-05-042003O'Brien,E.(2003).‘Ireland, Modernity and the Question of Definition.' The Journal of Music in Ireland, Volume 4,(1),18-21.http://hdl.handle.net/10395/307This essay is an exploration of the notion of modernity, and its relationship with tradition. It is a response to John Waters’ article on modernity entitles ‘Reactionary Progressives’. I will respond to the article in three sections. Firstly, I will contextualise the debate as I see it, secondly I will examine the issues raised by John Waters in terms of the relationship between modernity and tradition; and finally, I will offer some observations on the role that the work of John McGahern plays in this debate.engModernityReligionCultureTraditionMcGahernArticle