Poetry / News
Poet prepares for launch of second collection
A poetry collection of 48 poems, conceptualised across many neighbourhoods and streets of Bristol, is due to be published in September.
In Why I Wear My Past to Work, Chris Campbell takes his readers on an explorative journey of the many trials and tribulations of fatherhood and family life while navigating the stark contrasts between the ideal and real life.
Campbell’s second poetry collection, entirely written in Bristol, covers Gloucester Road, Stokes Croft, Bishopston, the city centre, Clifton, Redland and beyond, and will be launched with a special poetry night at the Bridge Inn on Passage Street.
is needed now More than ever
Campbell’s poetry collection navigates through themes of fatherhood, marriage and illness
Six Bristol-based poets – Robert Walton, Helen Sheppard, Tom Sastry, Anna Maughan, Sophie Durmont and Adam Elms – will attend the poetry night on September 28, expressing their support for Campbell’s new book.
The Dublin-born poet and former journalist launched his first poetry collection, All Island No Sea, in 2022. Much like his second collection, the first was also entirely written in Bristol, primarily being based in Clifton.
Ahead of the second collection’s launch, Campbell said: “said: “We have a superb line-up and I can’t wait to launch my new poetry collection, Why I Wear My Past to Work in Bristol.
“These poems were written in the city, so it’s fitting to reveal them at this fantastic pub, which is known for its creativity and music – thank you to everyone who has supported the collection.”
Tom Sastry, another local poet, believes Campbell’s work holds an insight into the unpredictable nature of our lives.
He added: “In a world of books which want to devastate you, Campbell is content to remind you that you could at any moment be devastated.
“This is a quiet memento mori of a book full of love, regret, curiosity, inevitability, and truth.”
Why I Wear My Past to Work is being published by Atlanta-based independent publisher Parlyaree Press.
Campbell’s work was previously shortlisted for the Canterbury Poet of the Year 2023 and is also working on a mini-pamphlet that is due to be published by Atomic Bohemian in 2026.
All photos: Chris Campbell
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