As writers and publishers of poetry, we at BRAG understand how passionate people are about the art. It is, as a result of our own dedication, refreshing when something new and culturally relevant pops out of the long established office of Poet Laureate.
30 Poets
In an age that has seen them slowly slip away, Simon Armitage has convened 30 poets to create a new response to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Simon said: “Can there be a more important time for focusing on human rights? Through poetry - that most democratic of art forms - and through other creative expressions, Ripples of Hope will be a meeting of thoughts and feelings on what it means to be a citizen of this world. A chance to talk and to listen and to share.”
HOME
And it’s only natural that this new poetic declaration be taking place at HOME, a bastion of contemporary culture. It wasn’t long ago that members of BRAG had the opportunity to watch the Simon perform alongside Jackie Kay. The declaration will be unveiled at three events on the 17th, 18th, and 19th of September.
Full List of Poets Gathered by Armitage:
Imtiaz Dharker
Sjonand Antrobus
Mona Arshi
Shivanee Ramlochan
Kwame Dawes
Tishani Doshi
Malika Booker
Glyn Maxwell
Linton Kwesi Johnson
Togas Muzanenhamo
Victoria Redel
Vona Groake
Caroline Bird
Karen McCarthy Woolf
Jennifer Wong
Luke Wright
Sean Borodale
Kimberley Campanello
Keisha Thompson
Mike Garry
Maura Dooley
Joelle Taylor
Jay Bernard
Zaffar Kunial
Demani
PA Bitez
Isaiah Hull
As a Manchester based literary magazine, we understand the importance of the written word to the people of this city, and it is no surprise to us that such a prestigious, important event should be taking place in the heart of it.