Gwyriad: Poems by Nigel Jarrett

A personal memory evokes class solidarity in the shadow of Newport’s transporter bridge. A search for a seat in a crowded café reveals a life of courage and loss. An answerphone message reflects the uncertainties and embarrassments of personal relationships, and a visit to the circus becomes a metaphor for changing times. At the heart of this volume, ‘Y Fenni/Fishponds’ depicts inmates and staff at the mental hospitals in Abergavenny and Bristol.

In award-winning writer Nigel Jarrett’s second poetry collection, and second publication with Cockatrice Books, technical skill and broad-ranging intelligence join depth of insight into human nature and an intimate knowledge of the social and industrial history of south Wales.

‘Brilliance and intrigue of language; an ability to trawl the impassive depths.’ Phoebe Walker, Lunar Poetry

‘Jarrett has wit and a remarkably sustained musical ear.’ Michael Knott, New Welsh Review



‘Miners At The Quarry Pool is a brilliantly atmospheric and unsettling collection, both emotionally charged and coldly objective.’ Liam Nolan, Books Council of Wales