Brian O'Nolan (Irish: Brian Ó Nualláin; 5 October 1911 – 1 April 1966) was an Irish novelist, playwright and satirist, considered a major figure in twentieth century Irish literature.
Born in Strabane, County Tyrone, he is regarded as a key figure in modernist and postmodern literature.
His English language novels, such as At Swim-Two-Birds and The Third Policeman, were written under the pen name Flann O'Brien.
As a novelist, O'Nolan was influenced by James Joyce.
He was nonetheless sceptical of the cult of Joyce, which overshadows much of Irish writing, saying "I declare to God if I hear that name Joyce one more time I will surely froth at the gob."