‘We are in the inferno’: diaspora writers lead new movement of nature poetry
A new movement of UK-based diaspora poets is challenging the traditional nature poetry canon by centering themes of climate change and biodiversity loss. The anthology 'Nature Matters' aims to increase the visibility of black and Asian writers in a genre historically dominated by white, western perspectives.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of environmental activism and cultural representation, broadening the discourse on the climate crisis.
The UK-based Jamaican poet Jason Allen-Paisant is among those featured in the anthology. Photograph: Richard Saker/The Observer The UK-based Jamaican poet Jason Allen-Paisant is among those featured in the anthology. Photograph: Richard Saker/The Observer Poetry ‘We are in the inferno’: diaspora writers lead new movement of nature poetry UK anthology inspired by question: ‘Where are our black and Asian nature writers?’ has boosted interest in genre
Prefer the Guardian on Google A new movement of eco poets from black and brown communities in the UK is challenging the canon of nature poetry against the backdrop of the climate and biodiversity crisis.
Mona Arshi, who co-edited the first UK collection of eco poetry from African, Asian and Caribbean diaspora voices, was inspired to put the anthology together after asking in a social media post that went viral: “Where are all our black and Asian nature writers?”
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