Poet gives a sense of his writing muse

Recent celebrations of World Poetry Day and the centenary of the birth of Dylan Thomas – one of Britain’s well-loved poets – seemed an appropriate occasion to invite a poet as speaker at the most recent meeting.

Andy Humphrey, of York, is a self-taught poet, who describes himself as ‘writer, part-time law student, trade union activist and a former research scientist’.

He is a busy man, currently familiar with Keighley through work, who discovered a love of language whilst at university. There he began to enjoy the challenge of creative writing, describing things to share with others as he and fellow students socialised in evenings of performance poetry.

He firmly believes poems are best appreciated when read aloud, enabling listeners to hear musical qualities and rhythms. Members were recommended to try this.

When asked about his selection of topics for his poems, Andy told how he likes to use all five senses to create associations that often touch the subconscious. Inspiration sometimes comes to him from observations of nature and his time as a research scientist, in particular working with plants.

Members listened intently as Andy read several of his poems. He began with a tribute to Keats, asking: “Why do people like autumn?” – a cynical but humorous look at the season that brings rain and the promise of approaching darkness and winter.

A love of nature with its many beautiful features was expressed in Arctic Tern, inspired by seeing and observing the shape and flight of the bird. Ice Palace evolved from a curiosity and interest in fantasy and fairy tales.

Andy also read a few love poems, one of which proved to be a winner at the annual competition held by the National Association of Writers’ Groups.

This enjoyable and entertaining interlude was followed by a challenge to members as he encouraged imaginations to identify and associate a collection of scents and smells (from Chanel No 5 to Vick’s Vapour Rub), designed to prompt ideas for creative writing.

The meeting ended with an opportunity to ask questions. Andy, who mostly writes free verse, was given the chance to explain his preference for this as opposed to more structured forms of poetry preferred by some, highlighting the aspect of musical rhythm when poetry is enjoyed by being read aloud. His contributions gave members some excellent ideas to pursue in their own writing.

Andy’s career as a poet, spanning the past 17 years, has met with several successes in competitions and publication in poetry magazines. His first full-length collection, entitled A Long Way To Fall, was published a few months ago by Lapwing Publications.