Commonwealth Poetry Podcast: Recent Episodes
Gyles Brandreth & Aphra Brandreth
Poetry from around the world! A fortnightly celebration of Poetry and The Commonwealth - where award winning podcaster Gyles Brandreth and his daughter Aphra visit each of the 54 countries of the Commonwealth, meeting poets, performers and people who love poetry and discovering new poems each episode.
In this fortnight’s episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet with poet, writer, and actor Hariz Fadhilah. Hariz explores themes of love, nature, culture, youth empowerment, and mental health in his poetry, writing in both English and Malay—sometimes blending the two. From an insightful discussion of Syair Awang Semaun, an ancient Bruneian epic, to a poem offering commentary on the capital city, Bandar, this episode invites listeners to delve deeper into Bruneian culture and its rich poetic tradition. Poems this episode include For the Misfits, Pantun Sayang, and Ode to a Son by Hariz Fadhilah, and When in Bandar by May Cho.
In this fortnight’s episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Nkateko Masinga, an award-winning South African writer and performance poet. Together they explore the influences from her early childhood and how she has interwoven her work and study of medicine with her poetry. She is intrigued by the stories of individuals who exist at the margins of society and considers herself a 'dangerous woman'. Discussing her current work which explores the complex and often tumultuous relationships that daughters have with their mothers.
Poems this episode include: Seven Lessons on Phosphorescence; Heritage; and self-portrait in utopia, all by Nkateko Masinga.
In this fortnight's episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth embark on a literary journey to Grenada, the "Island of Spice," with acclaimed Grenadian writer Amy J.W. Jones. Join us as Amy shares her early love for poetry, inspired by her father's passion, and discusses the social issues that have shaped her work. Sharing poems from her collections, Beyond Fables: Poetry, and A-Z Odyssey. Poems this episode include: Black Woman by Amy J.W. Jones; After Today by Amy J.W. Jones; and Because the dawn breaks by Merle Collins.
In this fortnight’s episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Mauritian-American writer Reena Usha Rungoo. Her short story, Dite, recently won the Commonwealth Short Story Prize for Africa. A writer, scholar, teacher, speaker, and mother. She is an assistant professor of literature at Harvard University. Exploring poetry and literature from Mauritius, from traditional Sega music to exploring the oral tradition of sirandane.
Poems this episode include a reading of lyrics from Le Morne by Cassiya.
Journey to the smallest country in Southern Africa to find out more about the people and poetry of Eswatini (Formally known as Swaziland). In this fortnight’s episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet writer and poet Njabulo N, Njabulo Tumelo Nkambule, who shares his story and some of his early love poems. Poems this episode include: Dear Fatima; The Sky is Blue; and Time O’clock, all by Njabulo Nkambule.
Marking the birthday of HM Queen Camilla on 17 July, Gyles Brandreth and Aphra Brandreth MP introduce a special episode of the Commonwealth Poetry Podcast, reprising our first ever episode recorded with Queen Camilla and the actress Dame Joanna Lumley at Clarence House in London and talking about the Commonwealth, the Royal Commonwealth Society and the University of Chester at Chester Town Hall.
In this fortnight’s episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Rebecca Tobo Olul-Hossen. A poet who grew up in Vanuatu, recalling her memories as a young girl living on the island of Tanna. A poet, storyteller, and editor, Rebecca co-edited Vanuatu’s first women’s anthology, Sista, Stanap Strong! She is committed to growing literature in Oceania. Poems this episode include: As you turn two weeks, old Koko dearest by Rebecca Tobo Olul-Hossen; Mama Graon – what have we done by Rebecca Tobo Olul-Hossen; and Chusum (The Choice) by Mildred Sope.
In this fortnight’s episode, Gyles and Aphra meet Vanessa Chisakula, a multifaceted artist who uses her work to challenge the status quo. Vanessa shares her story, growing up in a busy creative family her life changed when she became a mother. Inspired by spoken word poets, she started writing her own poetry. She is the 2023 Africa’s podcasts and voice (Rising talent in the poetry category) Award recipient.
Poems this episode include: Her Place; Gun Sentence; and Africana, all by Vanessa Chisakula.
In this fortnight’s episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth’s journey around the Commonwealth takes them to Togo, a West African country with a 32 mile coastline along the Gulf of Guinea. Togo is one of the newest members of the Commonwealth having joined in 2022. Speaking with award winning poet and playwright Dr Patron Henekou they discover more about Togo, it’s history, culture and poetry. Poems this episode include: When Sorrow-Song Descends on You by Henino Vinoko Akpalu; Dalva, Dalva from here by Patron Henekou; and The Last Photo with my Father by Anas Atakora.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Tanzanian poet Neema Komba. Neema shares her poetry journey, from a terrible event that took place as a teenage girl in a hospital, to the point that she discovered poetry as a way to express herself, to becoming the co-founder of La Poetista, a platform for poets and other performing artists to showcase their art and create a positive impact in the community through the arts. Sharing poems in both Swahili and English, poems this episode include: To my potential husband; Unaogopa Sauti Yangu (Are you afraid of my voice); and an Untitled Poem, all by Neema Komba; and Are you leaving Al Kindi? by Mohamed Yunus Rafiq.
In this fortnight’s episode, join Gyles and Aphra Brandreth as they discover more about Kenya and its poetry. We hear from Njeri Wangari, a Kenyan poet and author, who is living in Nairobi, and has performed her poetry globally.
She is one of the key contributors to a recently published poetry anthology called Across Borders – An anthology of new poems from the Commonwealth. Poems this episode include: The 10th Daughter; My Country Kenya; and My People, all by Njeri Wangari; and A Freedom Song by Marjorie Oludhe-Macgoye.
In this fortnight’s episode, join Gyles and Aphra Brandreth as they find out more about Botswana and its rich poetic traditions. Speaking to Barolong Seboni, a distinguished retired academic and poet. Barolong shares his fun and insightful translations of Botswanan proverbs, offering a window into the culture and poetry of the country. Poems this episode include: Molepolole; Woman’s World; and Gabarone Mall, all by Barolong Seboni.
In this fortnight’s episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Baroness Dambisa Moyo who shares her story growing up in Zambia. Dambisa is an economist and author who has written books, including four New York Times Bestsellers. Dambisa was named in the list of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World. Poems this episode include: Tiyenda Pamodzi popularized by Zambian president Kenneth Kaunda; and F.E.M.A.L.E. by Sampa the Great.
In this fortnight’s episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Marion Bethel, an esteemed Bahamian poet and attorney. Bethel, renowned for her award-winning poetry collections like "Guanahani, My Love" and "Bougainvillea Ringplay," shares insights into her life, inspirations, and the vibrant cultural landscape of the Bahamas. As she delves into her poetic journey, listeners gain a deeper understanding of her contributions to gender and development in the Caribbean, highlighted by her documentary "Womanish Ways," and her role in international advocacy, serving on the UN Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Poems this episode include: Tobacco Dove; Bougainvillaea Ringplay; and We Were Terrestrial Once, Maybe, all by Marion Bethel
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth speak to Tendai Shaba, a renowned Malawian poet and activist.
Tendai shares how he has used poetry to campaign on issues including gender based violence, climate change and advocating for safe motherhood. Poems this episode include a poem in Chichewa language addressing a relationship that has ended; Oh God Bless our Land of Malawi by Michael-Fredrick Paul Sauka, adopted as the National anthem for Malawi; and I am a Strong Woman Still by Tendai Shaba from his collection A Lady in a Yellow Dress.
Inspired to be a poet since the age of six when they saw the spoken word poet Adrian Green at the National Independence Festival of Creative Arts, Cyndi wrote their first spoken word poem nine years later. Since then, Cyndi has been a three-time NIFCA award winning poet who has represented Barbados in poetry slams and festivals in Africa, Europe, and the United States. Sharing how poetry allowed them to see and understand different points of view and walks of life. Cyndi seeks to use the spoken word art form to entertain, educate, and empower their audiences. Poems this episode include: An extract from the poem To Those Who Complain About Brain Drain; and Before, both by Cyndi Celeste
In this podcast episode, join hosts Gyles and Aphra Brandreth as they engage in a compelling conversation with Namibian poet Keamogetsi Joseph Molapong. Broadcasting from Windhoek, Namibia's capital, Keamogetsi, an activist-poet, sheds light on his passion for using poetry as a tool to amplify the voices of rural communities. Explore the challenges Namibia faced in its fight for independence and experience the emotive power of Keamogetsi's poetry. Poems his episode include: The Language I Am from the book the Scars on My Skin; Poverty; and My Love I was in the wrong, all by Keamogetsi Joseph Molapong
In this fortnight’s episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth engage in a conversation with Philip Nanton, a writer and spoken word performer who was originally born in St Vincent and currently resides in Barbados. Philip shares his compelling story, breathes life into his poetry, and delves into his recent project — a biography on the overlooked Vincentian jazz musician and poet, Shake Keane. Join them in exploring more about St Vincent and the Grenadines in this enjoyable episode of the Commonwealth Poetry Podcast. Poems this episode include: Punctuation Marks; Kitchen Combo; and All that Jazz, all by Philip Nanton.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth celebrate young voices from across the Commonwealth featuring special guests, Ayesha Dharker, Joanna Lumley, Meera Syal and Sanjeev Bhaskar. We hear from the two young winners of the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition, 17 year old Siddhi Deshmukh - the Senior Winner from India, and 13 year old Shreeya Sahi - the Junior Winner also from India, with excerpts from their winning contributions on the theme of 'A Youth-Powered Commonwealth’.
Poems this episode include: The Blessed Virgin compared to the Air we Breathe by Gerard Manley Hopkins; The Highwayman by Alfred Noyes; La Belle Dame sans Merci: A Ballad by John Keats; and Nod by Walter De La Mare. As well as excerpts from the winning Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition stories: ‘An Angel That Burns' by Senior Winner Siddhi Deshmukh; and 'Dear Little Prince' by Junior Winner Shreeya Sahi.
Gyles and Aphra Brandreth share some of their favourite seasonal poems in this special episode of the Commonwealth Poetry Podcast. Joined by staff and students from the University of Chester reading poems that remind them of Christmas, the Holidays and Home. This is the perfect episode to get you in the mood for the festive season wherever you are in the world. Poems this episode include: The Oxen by Thomas Hardy; Love came down at Christmas by Christina Rosetti; To Mrs K, On Her Sending Me an English Christmas Plum-Cake at Paris by Helen Maria Williams; Dear True Love by U. A. Fanthorpe; Holidays in Chennai by MathiRaj Manohara Raj; and December by Isaiah Agoro
In this special episode of the Commonwealth Poetry Podcast Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Jaspreet Kaur, a spoken word artist, writer and teacher from East London. Jaspreet is committed to using writing and spoken word to tackle issues including mental health stigma, and in this episode she shares how poetry has helped her to overcome her own mental health struggles. Discussing poetry as a form of therapy and how it can change the world, this is a special episode not to be missed!
Poems this episode include: Recovery; I Am; and Lost in translation, all by Jaspreet Kaur.
This week Gyles and Aphra Brandreth’s journey takes them to Lesotho, a land locked, mountainous country in Africa. They speak to Rethabile Masilo, an award winning poet who is the author of four poetry collections: Things that are Silent (Pindrop Press, 2012), Waslap (The Onslaught Press, 2015), Letter to Country (Canopic, 2016) and Qoaling (The Onslaught Press, 2018). Ratahabile shares his story growing up in Lesotho before being exiled with his family at the age of 20. His poems draw on his life experiences and the traumas that he and his family faced. Poems this episode include: My Mother Says She Sees Him; and The Boy Who Would Die, both by Rethabile Masilo
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet award winning Indian poet Sudeep Sen. Born and raised in New Delhi, Sudeep eloquently shares his formative influences growing up in a Bengali household steeped in poetry, literature, music, and dance. Describing poetry as ‘the oldest form of art’, Sudeep brings his art to life, reading a poem from his most recent collection which is both about the politics of language but mostly a homage to his first manual type writer. Exploring the importance of spoken poetry, as well as the impact of poetry on the written page. Sudeep discusses themes around Climate Change which he draws on in his most recent collection - Anthropocene: Climate Change, Contagion, Consolation – the first collection in his eco trilogy.
Poems this episode include: Language; and Disembodied both by Sudeep Sen.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Joy Lawrence an educator, author of several books delving into the rich folklore and history of Antigua and Barbuda, and a talented poet. Joy's interest in her country's history was kindled when she discovered that Bethesda, her hometown, was home to the first slave school in the British West Indies. Exploring that history and sharing wonderful poems that capture both the impact of devastating hurricanes on the island, as well as the use of language to paint an image. In a delightful twist, the episode also features the words of a Calypso song, celebrating the legendary Viv Richards, who is hailed as one of the greatest cricket players of all time and a national hero. Joy eloquently describes Calypso as poetry set to music.
Poems this episode include: Love Me; An Interview with Hurricane Luis; and Whirlwind, all by Joy Lawrence; and Viv is the Name, Cricket is the game, a Calypso song written by King Short Shirt (Sir MacLean Emanuel).
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Apiorkor Seyiram Ashong-Abbey, a Ghanaian-American Poet, Author, Literary Critic, and Activist. Apiorkor shares her reflections on modern Ghana, speaking about her optimism her country, as well as her determination to speak out and explore important issues, particularly to elevate the global voices of women. Sharing two of her own poems, in her work, she weaves poetic and journalistic styles together. Poems this episode include: I’m Fine, But I’m Not Fine, and Educated Dreams both by Apiorkor; and The Last Dinner by Kofi Anyidoho.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth’s journey around the Commonwealth takes them to The Gambia where they meet poet, short story writer, biographer and critic Dr Tijan M. Sallah, described by critics as one of Africa’s most significant poets and writers. Tijan shares his story growing up in Sere Kunda, Gambia, and the influence his teachers had on his becoming a writer. Sharing a poem by Lenrie Peters, the founding father of modern Gambian literature, as well as three of his own wonderful poems.
Poems this episode include: We have Come Home by Lenrie Peters;
I Come from a Country, and The Wisdom of First and Last, both from the collection I Come From A Country by Tijan M Sallah; and "Dawn Visit" from the poetry collection, Kora Land, by Tijan M Sallah.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth explore the riches of the Welsh langue and Welsh poetry with author and British comedy award winner Sioned Wiliam.
Sioned shares her story growing up in a Welsh speaking home, and her passion for the Welsh language and this beautiful country. Poems this episode include: My first love was a Plover by Twm Morys; The winning poem from this Year’s National Eisteddfod entitled ‘Llif’ (Flow) by Alan Llwyd; A poem by Elinor Wyn Reynolds; and Cofio and The Peacemakers (Y Tangnefeddwyr) both by Waldo Williams.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth meet Gladstone Ewart Franklin Solomon, a beekeeper living in Tobago, who shares his passion for bees and honey. Find about Bees for Development, a global charity which has helped some of the world’s poorest people become self-sufficient through beekeeping for over 30 years. With poems from poet Maria Bristol-Darlington, including a very special poem penned whilst recording this episode! You’ll be ‘buzzing’ by the end of this episode.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth’s journey around the Commonwealth takes them to Singapore where they meet award winning poet and director of Poetry Festival Singapore, Eric Tinsay Valles. Painting a vivid picture of Singapore today, Eric recounts his personal journey of relocating to the city-state and delves into the thriving world of poetry that flourishes there. Poems this episode include: Covid-19 War of the Worlds by Eric Tinsay Valles; Restoring a Mural in Changi Chapel by Eric Tinsay Valles, From After the Fall (dirges among ruins) [Ethos 2014]; and Uncle Never Knew by Edwin Thumboo.
In this episode, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth explore the wonders of Bangladesh and its poetry with Mozammel Hossain KC. Mozammel shares his inspiring journey from a small village in Bangladesh to becoming the first Bengali-speaking Criminal lawyer in the UK to be appointed Queen’s Counsel. He showcases Bangladesh's rich literary heritage with heartfelt poems. A captivating exploration of culture and art awaits!
Poems this episode include: Hey, Great Life by Sukantaa Bhattachaya; Banalata Sen by Jibanananda Das, Translated by Joe Winter; Bidrohi (The Rebel) by Kazi Nazrul Islam, translated by Sajed Kamal; and I won’t let you go by Rabindranath Tagore, translated by Ketaki Kushari Dyson
Gyles and Aphra Brandreth speak to Dominican poet Anella D Shillingford. Anella is a poet and educator, teaching English Literature and History to Dominican students. In this episode Anella describes how her love for poetry and the arts developed growing up in the small but vibrant country of Dominica. Anella has published collections of her poetry with Bonfire in 2019 and Of Rivers and Oceans in 2022. Her poetry explores themes of longing, familial love and healing. In this episode Anella reads: My Sister & I Are Picking Mangoes by Celia Sorhaindo, Self-Love, To the Woman I Never Met, She is Magic, and Records, all by Anella D. Shillingford.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth’s journey of discovery leads them to South East Asia where they delve into the vibrant world of Malaysian poetry. Meeting with Bernice Chauly an award-winning Malaysian poet, novelist, educator, and former festival director, through heartfelt storytelling Bernice paints a vivid picture of her upbringing in Malaysia in the 1970s. Bravely recounting a profound family tragedy from her youth, she shares the indelible impact it had on her life and work, and discusses the challenges at that time growing up in a mixed-race family, finding solace and inspiration in the world of books and stories.
Poems this episode include: Sometimes by Bernice Chauly, from Onkalo (Math Paper Press, 2013); And A Hymn to My Sarong by Salleh Ben Joned, from Poems Sacred and Profane.
In a special episode of the Commonwealth Poetry Podcast, Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, Speaker of the British House of Commons. Recorded from the Palace of Westminster, Sir Lindsay discusses his commitment to strengthen and renew the UK’s ties with the Commonwealth and British Overseas Territories. With a guest appearance from his cat, named Attlee after former Labour Prime Minister Clement Attlee, Mr Speaker shares his love of animals.
Poems this episode include: Macavity: The Mystery Cat by T. S. Eliot; and A Song of Hope by Oodgeroo Noonuccal (also known as Kath Walker)
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth bring you a special episode celebrating Father’s Day. The father and daughter duo explore the origins of Father’s Day, and what it means to them. Remembering his own father, and his love of poetry, Gyles discusses the joy and benefits of learning poetry by heart. Poems this episode exploring fatherhood include: Only a Dad by Edgar Albert Guest; Anecdote for Fathers by William Wordsworth; My Papa’s Waltz by Theodore Roethke and To Her Father with Some Verses by Ann Bradstreet.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Kendel Hippolyte an award winning poet, playwright, director and sporadic researcher into areas of Saint Lucian and Caribbean arts and culture. Kendel shares his love of St Lucia and its rich culture. Discussing the influence of poets including William Blake, who he describes as a poet who spans the political and cosmological, and the great St Lucian poet Derek Walcott. Poems this episode include: I Will Lift Up Mine Eyes by Kendel Hippolyte; Avocado by Kendel Hippolyte; Mango by John Robert Lee; and Geography for Robert by Jane King
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Jamaica’s former poet laureate Lorna Goodison. Recalling her upbringing growing up in a busy home where different influences shaped her voice, she still remembers the poetry she learned by heart as a child, reciting Wordsworth’s I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud from memory. In 1986 she won The Commonwealth Poetry Prize, an experience which she says changed her life. Writing poems about love and poems about justice, in this episode we discover more about Jamaica and hear some of Lorna’s wonderful poetry including: The Road of the Dread; After the Green Gown of My Mother Gone Down (an elegy to her mother); and Guinea Woman, all by Lorna Goodison.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth find out more about Uganda, once described by Winston Churchill as the ‘Pearl of Africa’. Speaking with Patricia Kabuleeta, Minister Counsellor at the Uganda High Commission in London, she shares her experiences growing up during the struggles in Uganda. Sharing poems that talk about the impact of the covid pandemic, the effects of climate change, of grief and of home. Patricia beautifully describes the story of her country, it’s history and the beauty and positive outlook for the future.
Poems in this episode include: Lullaby for Kainembabazi from What’s in a Name: Kainembabazi by Natasha Museveni Karugire; Okware Our Pandemic by Ethan Charles Mufuma, Uganda Junior Winner of the 2021Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition; Climate Crisis by Nelly A Kirungi; Home – What Does Home Mean to Me, a short essay By Sanyu Kaddu; and two poems by Tara Byanjeru: Time and No Longer do the Tears Drop.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Albertina Mac Donald the High Commissioner for Mozambique in the UK. Discovering more about Mozambique and sharing poems that explore its past. Poems this episode include: If you Want to Know Me by Noemia de Sousa read by Wilma Terresa Vieira; and Black Outcry by José Craveirinha, translated by Stephen Gray.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth’s journey of discovery takes them to the Pacific to hear about Solomon Islands and its poetry. Meeting with the Honorary Consul for Solomon Islands in the UK, John Freeman, he shares his memories from his time spent there as a magistrate. On the islands there are at least 63 distinct languages spoken and John brings his knowledge of language including reading a poem translated into Pijin. Poems this episode include: City Sunset by Celestine Kulagoe; La Glace, a poem by Richard Bellon translated into Pijin by Jerolyn Vili; and an excerpt from Civilised Girl by Jully Makini.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth are at the Riverside Studios in London meeting Urdu poet Dr Javaid Sheikh and his daughter Fatima. Describing Pakistan in just a minute, both Javaid and Fatima talk about Pakistan as it was when Dr Sheikh was growing up, and Pakistan for them both today. Discussing differing styles of poetry in Pakistan and hearing Urdu poems written by Dr Sheikh himself, and romantic Urdu poetry by the award winning poet Iftikhar Arif. Fatima also reads us two poems by the award winning poet, a pioneer in feminist poetry, Kishwar Naheed.
Poems in this episode include: A Strange Wish by Javaid Sheikh; The Grass is Like Me by Kishwar Naheed; A love Poem by Iftikhar Arif; Ghazal by Iftikhar Arif (translated by Ralph Russell) and The Auction House by Kishwar Naheed.
Did you know, there is a 1,000 km walkable path connecting the Commonwealth? In this week’s episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth go on a virtual walk to find out all about the work of the Commonwealth Walkway Trust. Speaking to the Trust’s CEO Jim Walker, and to Royal Biographer and trustee Hugo Vickers, together they share their stories of walking in each Commonwealth Country and the collaborative ambition to create safe, easy to access places to walk with a unifying path that connects people and places. Poems this episode include: A Nervous Governor-General by Andrew Barton Paterson (Banjo Paterson); Bird on the Wire by Leonard Cohen and Upon Westminster Bridge by William Wordsworth.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet with H.E. Emmanuel Mallia, High Commissioner for Malta in the UK. Emmanuel Mallia talks about the part that poetry has played in his life, describing poetry as something that you feel inside. Discussing the poetry of Malta from the oldest known literary text in the Maltese language, a poem dating from around 1485, to the poems and hymns of Dun Karm Psaila. Dun Karm who was a priest, writer and poet, is widely recognised as the Maltese National Poet and wrote the lyrics for the Maltese National Anthem.
Poems in this episode include: Lil Ommi (To My Mother) by Rużar Briffa; and L-Innu ta'Filgħaxija (A Hymn for the Evening) by Dun Karm Psaila.
Join Gyles and Aphra Brandreth as they meet the Chief Executive of Oxam, Danny Sriskandarajah, who shares his story growing up on a small island in Sri Lanka. Recalling the happy memories of his childhood as well as the lasting impacts of the Sri Lanken civil war that would displace his family. Danny reads poems from the ancient Tamil text, Thirukural, as well as sharing poems that highlight different aspects of the war in Sri Lanka from his perspective as a Sri Lanken Tamil.
Highlighting the important work of Oxfam, as he puts it, when in the world today there are more people in need of humanitarian assistance than there have been at any time since the second world war. Danny also reads Carol Ann Duffy’s fun poem about Oxfam.
Poems in this episode include: Two poems from the ancient Tamil text – Thirukural; When they shot him dead by Cheran; A plot of land by Cheran; Nanthikadal by Nillanthan; Colonization in Reverse by Louise Bennett-Coverley; and Oxfam by Carol Ann Duffy
Join Gyles & Aphra Brandreth as they venture to the west-central Pacific Ocean to explore the 4th smallest country in the world by land mass, and a country where the population is less than 12,000, Tuvalu. Speaking to the Honorary Consul General for Tuvalu in the UK, H.E. Dr Sir Iftikhar Ayaz, we learn about Tuvalu’s past and its future, in a country where the threat of climate change is immediate with most of the islands sitting barely three meters above sea level. Poems in this episode include: Tuvalu, Tuvalu an original poem by Sir Iftikhar Ayaz KBE, first recited at the Commonwealth Foundation's Festive Poetry Event; an English translation of a Climate Song by Maina Talia; and Tuvalu Blues by Selina Tusitala Marsh.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth’s journey around the Commonwealth takes them to New Zealand where they meet H. E. Bede Corry – the New Zealand High Commissioner to the UK at the time of recording and now the Ambassador to the USA. Meeting at the High Commission in London, he shares his love of New Zealand, and Literature, and discusses New Zealand’s poetry.
Poems this episode include Song of Allegiance, by R.A.K. Mason; Huia, by Bill Manhire; and Immigrant, by Fleur Adcock
Start the new year with a special podcast episode recorded from the Blue Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace. In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet the young winners from across the Commonwealth of the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition. With special guest appearances from three of the ambassadors of the Royal Commonwealth Society: Geri Horner, Alexandra Burke and Ayesha Dharker.
In this episode the young competition winners share poems they wrote in 60 seconds! And we hear the winning poems: Catalina by Madeleine Wood, Junior Winner, aged 14 From Australia; and Nursing Homes by Amaal Fawzi, Senior Runner-up aged 17 from UK
Join Gyles and Aphra Brandreth for a special Christmas episode with Baroness Floella Benjamin OM DBE. The Trinidadian born actress, presenter, broadcaster and parliamentarian, currently Chairs the Windrush Commemoration Committee and was recently awarded the Order of Merit. She has written over 30 books with her memoir ‘Coming To England’ now studied in schools. In this episode she shares her memories of growing up as a young child in Trinidad before moving to Britain, and the huge culture shock and difficulties that she faced when she arrived. Bringing her energy, joy of singing and passion for inspiring children and young people, she shares and sings traditional Trinidadian folk songs and rhymes from her childhood including Brown Girl in the Ring, Clap Hands for Mammy and T’is Long Time Gal Me Never See Yuh
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Dr Theresa Muñoz a poet and researcher based in Edinburgh, Scotland. Winner of the Muriel Spark Centenary award, RLS Fellowship & Creative Scotland Project Grant, Theresa’s poems have appeared in journals across the Atlantic. Her debut collection Settle (Vagabond Voices, 2016), shortlisted for the Melita Hume Poetry prize. Discussing Canadian poetry and sharing some of her own poems, join us as we explore the second largest country in the world.
Poems this episode include: Dark Pines Under Water By Gwendolyn MacEwen; Daddy Foucault by Theresa Muñoz; and Simpsons Dept Store, Toronto by Theresa Muñoz
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth travel to Nigeria to meet Ben Okri. The Booker Prize winning author is a poet, novelist, essayist, short story writer, anthologist, aphorist, and playwright. Ben was born in Minna in the North of Nigeria before moving to England as a young child. Together with his family, aged 7 years old, he returned to Nigeria on the cusp of the civil war, something which was to have a defining impact on his life and work.
Poems in this episode include Ibadan by J. P. Clark, I Anoint My Flesh by Wole Soyinka, Heavensgate For Georgette by Christopher Okibo and three of Ben Okri’s poems: An African Elegy; Finding the Present and And If You Should Leave Me.
Brought to you from the Grosvenor House Hotel in London, this episode includes guest contributions from Shantall Agoreyo & Olawale Adediran - Masters students from the University of Chester who are part of our Commonwealth Poetry Podcast production team.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth are joined by HRH The Duke of Kent, President of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, and Royal biographer Hugo Vickers, for a special recording to mark Remembrance Sunday.
Speaking from York House in London they share war poems from across the Commonwealth to remember the contribution and sacrifice of the many men and women from all around the Commonwealth who died during both world wars. This episode highlights the incredible work of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, a global organisation, which cares for war graves at 23,000 locations in more than 150 countries and which commemorate almost 1.7 million individuals.
Poems this episode include: In Flanders Fields By John McCrae; The Gift of India by Sarojini Naidu; and The Landing By George Street.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet Dr Farah Faizal the High Commissioner for the Republic of Maldives in the UK. Dr Faizal, who enjoys writing poetry herself and is the granddaughter of poets, discusses pioneering women in Maldivian poetry. In this episode she shares poems by one of the earliest female poets writing in the Dhivehi language, Aminath Faiza who was famously known as the “Daisy Maa", the Daisy flower of Maldivian poetry.
Poems this episode include: Hearts of Stone by Farah Didi, and On the Occasion of the Wedding of Princess Elizabeth, and The New Spirit of Maldivian Women both by Aminath Faiza (Daisy Maa).
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth travel to the Seychelles located in the Western Indian Ocean to meet dub poet Tony 'Raspyek' Joubert. Going by the stage name Raspyek, he shares his story and performs some of his poems including ‘Mr Johnson’ which he wrote as a young man about the boyfriend of an older girl he was in love with, ‘Money’ and ‘Hours of Slavery’.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth travel to Kiribati, located in the central Pacific Ocean it is made up of 33 Coral islands, of which 20 are inhabited with a total population of just 115,000. We meet Rotee Walsh a traditional singer and dancer, and her husband Michael Walsh author of A History of Kiribati from the Earliest Times to the 40th Anniversary of the Republic. They share their story of life in Kiribati, its history and traditions. And whilst Kiribati does not have a written tradition of poetry, it does have a very rich body of poetic song. So instead of poems this episode, we hear two traditional songs translated as: Teraaka’s Adventure and I look up in the sky in wonder.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth travel to Belize in Central America where they meet Felene Cayetano a Belizean, Garifuna, Librarian, Author, Mother, Screenwriter and Director. Describing Belize as “a place of love and joy and sunshine” she shares her passion for reading, for books, and for libraries.
Poems this episode include: Dawn is a Fisherman by Raymond Barrow and In My Feet by Felene M. Cayetano.
Poetry from around the world! A fortnightly celebration of Poetry and The Commonwealth.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth travel to Australia which is amongst the largest countries in the world and home to the world’s biggest coral system. They meet with the High Commissioner for Australia His Excellency George Brandis QC who shares his love for Australia as well as his love for poetry, reading two classic Australian poems. And we hear from Jaya Savige, an Australian Poet living in London who shares one of his poems from his most recent collection, Change Machine (2020), which was a finalist for the Australian Prime Minister’s Literary Award.
Poems this episode include: Clancy of the Overflow by A. B. (“Banjo”) Paterson; My Country by Dorothea Mackellar; and Whatever the question, the cordless by Jaya Savige
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth meet award winning poet Grace Nichols, recipient of the 2021 Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry. Meeting at her home in Lewes, East Sussex, Grace takes us on a journey to Guyana sharing stories of growing up in a small country village before moving to the capital George Town and eventually migrating to England.
Poems this episode include: Picture my Father, Wha Me Mudder Do and For Forest, all by Grace Nichols, Looking At Your Hands By Martin Carter and Tarantella by Hilaire Belloc.
In this episode Gyles & Aphra Brandreth travel to Cyprus – one of the sunniest islands in Europe. It has been written about and featured in literature over hundreds of years from Ancient Epic Poetry to Shakespeare. Our guest this episode is Dr Marios Psaras the Cultural Counsellor at the Cypriot High Commission who takes us on a journey discovering the richness of Cypriot literature. He shares his experience growing up in a refugee settlement in Cyprus and talks about the relationship between poetry and philosophy.
Poems this episode include an excerpt from Scruple by Stella Voskaridou and Doggy by Avgi Lilli.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth's journey around the Commonwealth takes them to St Kitts & Nevis where they meet H.E. Dr Kevin Isaac, High Commissioner for St Kitts and Nevis and the current Vice-Chair of the Board of Governors of the Commonwealth Secretariat. Dr Isaac is also a published poet describing his poems as 'verbal photography' taking snapshots of life. Poems in this episode include: And I Missed the Laughter, and The Vessel, both by Kevin M Isaac from his compilation of poems 'Breakfast With My Fathers' which is dedicated to his father and father-in-law. Poetry from around the world! A fortnightly celebration of Poetry and The Commonwealth.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth's journey around the Commonwealth takes them to Cameroon via Russia and Wales! They meet Eric Ngalle Charles a Cameroonian born, Wales based writer, poet, playwright, and actor who shares his remarkable journey crossing continents from Africa to Europe. Poems in this episode include If Heaven is Her Father’s Land, Her Father Can Keep It, and Fragments by Eric Ngalle Charles. Poetry from around the world! A fortnightly celebration of Poetry and The Commonwealth.
In this episode Gyles and Aphra Brandreth's journey around the Commonwealth takes them to Rwanda where they meet Melody Ingabire a Rwandan poet working at the High Commission in London. Melody paints a picture of Rwanda, reading thought provoking poems which reflect on the 1994 Rwandan genocide, as well as sharing her optimism for the future. Poems in this episode include Speak for the People by Malaika Uwamahoro and Relearning the Power of Soft by Melody Ingabire. Poetry from around the world! A fortnightly celebration of Poetry and The Commonwealth.
Poetry from around the world! A fortnightly celebration of Poetry and The Commonwealth - the journey begins at Clarence House in London where award winning podcaster Gyles Brandreth and his daughter Aphra meet HRH The Duchess of Cornwall and Dame Joanna Lumley. Over the coming weeks Gyles & Aphra will be visiting each of the 54 countries of the Commonwealth, meeting poets, performers and people who love poetry and discovering new poems each episode.