Becoming a Poet

A diverse group of acclaimed young writers reflect on their composing processes, writing experiences and developing creative practices.

This book includes over 30 poems with accompanying short essays in which emerging poets reflect on their progression as writers and the journey of their composition from draft to final version.

As well as offering insight into the minds of developing artists, these poets also discuss key issues pertaining to the creative process:

- mentors, inspiration and influence

- their personal poetics

- exploration of poetic identities

- the importance of poetry for mental health

- their writing life and routines, including writing during a pandemic

- experiences of submitting, performing and publishing their work

- building poetry networks



Originating in research from Young Poets' Stories project, the essays are accompanied by commentary by the editors in the hope of inspiring future young poets and their teachers.



Offering a diverse snapshot of young, modern writers and alert to the ever-changing dynamics of writing poetry, Becoming a Poet also offers practical guidance on commissions, mentoring opportunities, competitions, writers' networks, grants and routes to publishing. Championing young poets and putting them into dialogue with their peers, this is the ultimate exhibition of the voices of tomorrow.