Hollie McNish has garnered a dedicated following for her candid and relatable poetry, which spans themes from motherhood to loss. Her collections, including Nobody Told Me and Slug, reflect the complexities of everyday life, resonating with readers through their warmth and wit, reports BritPanorama.
McNish’s exploration of poetry’s impact prompts an inquiry into the influences that have shaped her craft. Here, she identifies five poetry collections that have significantly inspired her journey as a writer.
A Squash and a Squeeze by Julia Donaldson
“A love of poetry is ignited in so many children during their early years. Despite us often not categorizing them as poetry, many beloved children’s stories are composed in verse. This affection for poetry frequently diminishes as we grow older, resurfacing only for significant occasions like weddings or funerals.
“One of my favorite poetry books to read to my child when she was young; I miss the moments of reading aloud as sleep overtakes me! The book’s premise is brilliant; it comes to mind each year when I dismantle my Christmas tree and my small living room feels expansive. Many people seem intimidated by poetry, viewing it as something precious and unattainable. To rekindle my love for it, I return to my childhood roots.”
“Hint: Read this book, whether you’re a kid or not.”
Macmillan Children’s, £7.99
Poetry is Not a Luxury: Poetry Anthology
“I consistently recommend poetry anthologies to those uncertain about where to begin their poetry journey or who wish to reconnect with it. It’s akin to a selection box of chocolates or a music playlist, but containing poetry. My current favorite anthology is rich with diverse voices and writing styles.
“This anthology stems from an exceptional Instagram account, @poetryisnotaluxury, which shares a new poem weekly, keeping my discovery of new voices alive. I appreciate how this collection is organized into chapters that reflect the four seasons.”
“Hint: Open a random page each morning and read a poem before you pick up your phone.”
Gallery UK, £20
Manorism by Yomi Sode
“I selected this book not for its ease of reading but for its brilliance. While some poetry fills me with joy and laughter through its simplicity, I also value the challenges presented by more complex works. I cherish Wilfred Owen, particularly “Dulce et Decorum Est,” despite my struggles with it during school, and I admire this collection by Yomi for its profound depth and extraordinary language that allows insight into experiences unfamiliar to me.
“This collection explores the lives of Black British men and boys, offering a powerful lens alongside the violent imagery from artists like Caravaggio and modern commentary from figures such as David Starkey and Piers Morgan.”
“Hint: Read each poem twice. Get your teeth into it, it’s worth it.”
Penguin, £10.99
Swell by Maria Ferguson
“While I generally don’t read poetry collections completely, I did with this one. It is a brilliantly crafted, at times heartbreaking, and humorously dry exploration of pregnancy and new motherhood. If you’re considering skipping it because you’re not a new mother or a mother at all, reconsider. Literature often dismisses specific experiences, especially those by certain people.
“I find profound insight in poetry written by World War I soldiers, despite having never been a young man or soldier. I appreciated reading The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, even without ever discovering a magical world. Returning to the topic of birth, it seems motherhood is frequently overlooked in artistic realms, despite its complexity and relevance.”
“Hint: Take an evening after dark and read it cover to cover.”
Penguin, £10.99
Oyster by Michael Pedersen
“This book holds a special place in my heart for various reasons. It was one of the last works written by my partner before the tragic loss of his close friend, Scott Hutchinson, a talented singer who illustrated many of the poems.
“This collection showcases the joy of playing with language and form. Michael is deeply fascinated by the extensive spectrum of words and descriptions in the English language, evident in his work. I also find joy in books with illustrations, and this collection beautifully intertwines poetry and visuals, showcasing how both art forms can inspire each other, reminiscent of the friendship shared by Scott and Michael.”
“Hint: Tell people you love them. Send them a poem.”
Polygon, £12.99
‘Virgin’ by Hollie McNish (Fleet, £14.99) is out now
