University News Last updated 01 July 2010
A former IT worker’s first attempt at writing poetry has been chosen for publication in the Times Literary Supplement (TLS).
Tom Knowles, 29, was runner-up in the Times Literary Supplement Poetry Competition 2010 after entering his first attempt at writing poetry for a competition. Until then his only attempt at writing poetry was as part of his studies at Birmingham City University. His success is part of a double celebration as Tom found out on June 21 that he had been awarded a first class honours degree BA English Literature and he is the joint winner of the John Squires Prize, which is given to the highest performing student on the course.
The Times Literary Supplement Poetry Competition 2010 is extremely competitive as anyone can enter and poems may be in any style and on any subject. It is judged by two of the top names in the world of literature, Alice Quinn, Executive Director of the Poetry Society of America and formerly Poetry Editor of the New Yorker and Alan Jenkins, Poetry Editor of the TLS.
Tom, who is from Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, wrote the poem called Hope following the break-up of a relationship. Despite being an English literature student he had never turned his hand to writing poetry for a competition before and was amazed to do so well. He said: “It’s difficult to get your work published so I am really flattered to have such success so soon. I hope to get other work published so I’m hoping this isn’t beginners’ luck!”
“I’ve always had a passion for literature and decided to move out of IT because I wanted to do something creative.”
Currently working for the CBSO on a project for schoolchildren, Tom will start studying in September for a PhD at Birmingham City University in 18th and 19th century literary editing, specialising in the work of Sir Walter Scott.
Professor David Roberts, Head of the School of English, said: “Everyone in the School feels immensely proud of Tom, who is an outstanding student in every way. His poem combines an almost conversational tone with an urgency of feeling that is distinctive and moving. I’m delighted to say that he’s staying with us to pursue postgraduate studies and I look forward to seeing his career – and his writing – develop still further.’
The School of English offers a joint BA course in English and Creative Writing, and is currently validating an MA in association with the National Academy of Writing. Over the years our students have enjoyed significant publication success and media opportunities. In 2008, Mary Rochford’s Gilded Shadows, completed as part of her studies here, was voted Birmingham’s favourite book. In April this year, a group of scriptwriting students had their work showcased at London’s Royal Court Theatre, the country’s premier venue for new stage writing.