Ann Drysdale

Ann Drysdale was a poet who moved from the North York Moors to Blaina, where she resided for decades. Her work became widely recognized, culminating in receiving second prize in the 2001 National Poetry Competition for her poem ‘New Fruit’. This early recognition established her presence in the poetry community and set the stage for her subsequent publications. She passed away in her home on Friday, August 16.

Throughout her career, Drysdale published several poetry collections, including ‘Backwork’ with Peterloo Poets in 2002, and ‘Quaintness and Other Offences’ with Cinnamon in 2009. Her body of work is characterized by a blend of wit, assurance, and a deeply humane perspective, as noted in reviews of her collections like ‘Peony Moon’. In addition to her individual poetic endeavors, she collaborated with photographer Tim Collier on a book of poems that explored the changing landscape of the South Wales valleys. Her contributions to poetry were celebrated by peers and publications alike, including being featured in an art-science collaboration event where she performed readings.

Drysdale’s work resonated beyond formal publications, with her poems being included in public initiatives; for instance, her work was featured on postcards as part of a project to hide feminist poems across London. Her distinct voice and perspective contributed to her being considered a superb and self-aware poet, with her passing being mourned by the Gwent community and the broader literary world. Her collections continue to be available, showcasing her unique contribution to contemporary poetry.