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'A brave and exciting new forum for the best in contemporary
poetry.'
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| Andrew
Motion
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' A stunning anthology
. . . wide-ranging and thought-provoking, yielding a new gem
every time you open the book.'
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| Writers' News
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'On every page conventions are quietly
exploded.'
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| Hugo
Williams
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I am proud to have
been
the editor of Reactions, for four years. Conceived as a different kind of
annual anthology for contemporary poetry, Reactions showcased the best new voices
on (and off) the poetry scene. It had a great track record in discovering
and/or promoting talents who went on to gain wider recognition and was seen as a stepping
stone towards a first collection. Names like Bloodaxe's Helen Ivory, Seren's Owen Sheers, and
the Next Generation poet, Catherine Smith, were among its early contributors.
In 2005 the award-winning poet, Clare Pollard, herself published by Bloodaxe, took over
the editing role producing a stunning fifth edition.
Unfortunately, funding constraints mean the Reactions project is currently on hold,
though it is hoped that it will be revived and funding is being sought to secure its future.
In the meantime, its sister publication, the twice-yearly literary magazine Pretext
featuring short stories, essays, interviews, poetry and novel extracts from established names
alongside rising stars, continues to be published by Pen & Inc Press,
the small press based at the University of East Anglia. Check their website for submissions
information and for news of Reactions.
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'. . . a
sticklebacked body of poetry which is as sure to enrage as
engage.'
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| The Big Issue
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'There is an
urgency about these poems struck out like Billy Elliot's dance
on the shithouse roof . . .
'
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| Roger
Garfitt
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'. . .an anthology of genuine
significance'
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| George Szirtes
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