Genre: Poetry

I finally got around to reading Mean Time by the incredible Carol Ann Duffy. I think this is probably one of the only ones I have not read - and honestly, I wasn't disappointed.

There are poems on everything and everything. It has pieces for anyone and everyone.

Filled to the brim with all the Duffy goodness that we have come to expect from our Poet Laureate. This can be used to document happenings and musings.

It's narrative is in the third person and is used to provide a 'bigger picture' effect. This is helped by Duffy's skilful use of technical devices, such as, alliteration, metaphors, similes, etc.

Duffy has lived up to the title 'Poet Laureate' in her tenure of the position. I am sure she will be missed when she steps down from the role she has held for several years.

Genre: Poetry, Autobiography

​After reading the Gold from the Stone by Lemn Sissay I believe that I have gotten to know this poet extremely well. 

This is the first body of work I have read of Mr Sissay, ad I like it - very much.

By pulling poems from all of his other collections this book shows the poets skill with words and verse.

Throughout there is a Mancunian tone, especially when the pieces looks back at his youth or on the places he has called home.

Much of the collection is autobiographical in nature with Sissay focusing on his childhood, family, political and sociological views, etc.

My favourite poem of this collection is 'Remember How We Forgot' - especially the following lines: