Tony Harrison, the author of the poems that make up this collection, is an English poet and playwright. Through his poetry, Harrison has brought up many controversies and has presented them in an artistic way that creates new perspectives as well as openly speaking about political issues during that time. In 2015, Harrison was given the David Cohen Prize for his work.
In addition, Harrison is also a translator, with his works involving English medieval plays, Moliere, Racine, and many Greek dramas being very successful. Though Harrison writes in many different formats and styles, he says that he still sees himself as a poet. He is particularly skilled at incorporating controversial social issues such as class, race, and political power into his work yet still preserving the brilliance and sensitivity that poetry possesses.
