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About Us
Louis MacNeice Society is a non-profit organisation that was founded in July 2023 which brings authors, scholars, writers and fans of MacNeice together. Our goal is to develop a community that values reading, creativity, and critical thinking. We think that literature has the power to take us to new places, alter our viewpoints, and motivate us to better understand ourselves and the world around us. As a society, we plan frequent gatherings, seminars, and activities that allow our members the chance to read publications, present their own writing, and get criticism from their peers. In order to provide our members with insights and experiences from the literary world, we frequently extend invitations to guest lecturers.
At the heart of our literary society lies a profound mission: to resuscitate the forgotten legacy of Louis MacNeice, a poet whose poignant verses once resonated deeply, but have somewhat faded from public consciousness. We gather like-minded individuals who believe that the intricacy of his words deserve to be reintroduced to a new generation. By organising readings, workshops, and discussions, we aim to ignite a fresh appreciation for his poetic artistry, exploring themes of displacement, longing, and the search for meaning in a rapidly evolving world. Our society serves as a platform for not only MacNeice's resurgence, but also for countless other marginalised and underappreciated voices.
Our Members
Andie Kristina - Founder, Managing Director, CEO
Andie Kristina is a poet and scholar whose writing frequently delves into themes of identity, displacement, and the human experience, stemming from her relocation to Kelowna at the age of four. Andie also takes pleasure in creating poetry that reflects the female viewpoint and extends beyond it. Alongside her writing, she also teaches at a private school and individually tutors GCSE and A Level students. She completed her BA in English Literature and French at Loughborough University where she collaborated with Joycean scholar and Irish author Professor Clare Hutton. Andie's dissertation was deemed one of the best in her year, and she was then offered an unconditional offer to study for an MA in English Literatures at Keele University, where she completed her second degree. It was then that she worked on her dissertation with the Founder of May Sinclair Society, Dr Rebecca Bowler. Andie's MA dissertation discussed processes of unconscious influence between Louis MacNeice and Ezra Pound and earned a distinction. Andie received a doctoral scholarship in May 2023 and is presently pursuing her PhD under the guidance of Dr Wim Van Mierlo, the president of the European Society for Textual Scholarship and Dr Oliver Tearle, the foundeer of Interesting Literature. Andie's thesis examines how MacNeice's poetry represents his 'collection of selves', which change based on his environment, societal status, and life experiences. Andie has also produced an online facsimile of Ernest Dowson’s love poetry and is currently working on a poetry collection that she hopes will interest Faber & Faber. Andie’s other notable works can be found via her LinkedIn profile here.
Amber Taylor - Multimedia Executive
Amber Taylor is a recent graduate from the University of Cambridge, where she earned a first class honours degree in English. Over the course of her studies, she authored three dissertations that spanned a diverse range of writers, from Milton and Blake to Hardy and Dickens. Through these projects, Amber delved into themes of agency, embodiment, and identity, examining how such concepts intersect with cultural narratives and personal experiences. During her second year, Amber was introduced to the work of Louis MacNeice when, as part of her study of twentieth century
literature, she wrote an essay on the poet’s place in the Anglo-Irish tradition. This experience, combined with her other academic explorations, significantly shaped her intellectual journey and deepened her interest in literary studies, particularly in the areas of poetic heritage, cultural identity, and the complexities of the Anglo-Irish literary canon. Outside of her academic pursuits, she worked as a student journalist, obtaining writing and editing credits in the theatre and arts section of Cambridge’s Varsity newspaper. Amber is eager to nurture her interests further through her contributions to Louis MacNeice Society, where she hopes to promote a deeper understanding of MacNeice’s work, while also gaining practical experience in multimedia journalism.
Billy Metcalfe - Creative Arts Editor
Billy Metcalfe graduated from Chelsea College of Art in 2017 and has since been living and working in London. Working primarily in painting, set design and illustration, Billy draws on poetry and literature for the creation of his work. Billy initially discovered MacNeice's poetry as a student, particularly through the poem 'Prayer Before Birth,' and has remained a passionate fan of his work ever since. MacNeice's poetry continues to be a significant source of inspiration for Billy's paintings and illustrations. Billy has most recently been included in the charity auction 'The Eternity Exhibition' (2020) at The Painting Rooms and the exhibitions 'BIRTHDAY' (2020) at the White Crypt Gallery and 'Pending' (2020) at the San Mei Gallery. Billy has also co curated several exhibitions including 'Goodbye Scarecrow' (2023) at the Hoxton Arches, 'Out of Bodies' (2018) at the THRDS studio and 'Romeo, He’s Moaning' (2019) at the 5th Base Gallery. Billy also worked in collaboration with the San Mei Gallery and the writer and poet Siofra Dromgoole to create 'Goodbye Scarecrow' a book of poetry and illustrative painting. Furthermore, Billy was responsible for creating and designing the Asian Zen water drinks for Itsu, a British chain valued at over £100 million that focuses on East Asian-inspired fast food and grocery products. Billy's professional website can be found here: https://billymetcalfe.com/.
Lauren Clinton - Visual Arts Editor
Lauren Clinton, a young photographer from Hampshire, recently completed her BA (Hons) in Photography at The University for the Creative Arts. Through her photography, she tells stories and addresses social and political concerns, creatively reflecting her perspectives on the information she encounters. She employs both realist and surrealist techniques to convey her thoughts about contemporary society and to provide fresh viewpoints. By visualising metaphors and narratives from her unique perspective, she invites viewers to derive their own interpretations of her work. Drawing inspiration from literature, which plays a significant role in her life, Lauren skillfully merges visual elements with written narratives, infusing her photography with a storytelling aspect. Her work challenges audiences to reflect on the world around them and highlights significant historical issues. You can explore her portfolio on her website: https://www.laurenclinton.co.uk/
Yasmin Winters - Creative Co-ordinator
Yasmin Winters is a recent creative graduate and an emerging artist. Her creative practise focuses on oil paintings and drawings that synthesise surrealism, realism and abstract styles. Her artworks evolve around the human figure recognising the sense of self as both subject and object. Currently working towards carving out a distinct visual identity, Yasmin intentionally manipulates semiotics and visual cues allowing to the artwork to be read, dissected and discussed by those with differential levels of resonation. She often refers to the viewers of her work as readers, for each painting is layered with symbolism and often even personal writings and poetry. The intention of creation for Yasmin is to foster conversations and contemplation surrounding each other, emotions and contemporary mundanity rather than a painting serve as mere wallpaper. She first found love for poetry when she studied for LAMDA Verse & Prose qualifications, falling for the way poetry could offer bridges between introspection, emotion, and indifference. Often finding language limiting, poetry’s ability to communicate through metaphors and euphemisms enabled her to understand a greater feat only achievable through artforms. Her first true connection to poetry came from reading MacNeice’s poem 'Prayer Before Birth' and once discovering the society she found herself presented with a wonderful opportunity for intersection between her passions. You can see her process here: https://www.instagram.com/yasiswintering/
Our Contributors
Academics
Amanda Ellison
Amanda Ellison is a dedicated teacher and versatile writer, with a passion for literature, history, and journalism. Over two decades ago, she embarked on her teaching journey after completing her PGCE at Newcastle University. With her degree in English and History, she has been shaping young minds and fostering a love of literature and the past ever since. More recently, Amanda’s writing career has flourished. She honed her journalism skills by earning a diploma in the field, which allowed her to seamlessly blend her teaching and writing roles. Her creative pursuits have led her down diverse paths, including regular feature writing for a prominent musical theatre website and professional book reviewing. She has cultivated a considerable portfolio over the years. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Amanda is relentlessly creative: she self-published an educational children’s book and is currently immersed in drafting her first poetry pamphlet. Her work with Louis MacNeice Society not only keeps her research and analytical skills on the right side of sharp, but also exemplifies her commitment to safeguarding literary culture.
Deborah Cox-Walker
Deborah Cox-Walker was born in New York but educated in England where she developed a love of English literature. She graduated from Durham University with a first class honours in the subject and went on to have poetry and essays published before completing her Masters in Film Aesthetics at Oxford University. She then founded Little Ox Press which publishes books written and/or illustrated by children. She is currently working on a second novel and continues to write poetry. She is excited about taking a close look at the poetry of Louis MacNeice. Her personal website is DeborahCox.co.uk.
Georgia Yianni
As an impassioned writer and devoted reader, Georgia Yianni is currently pursuing a dual degree in Comparative Literature and Ancient Greek at University College London. Driven by aspirations to immerse herself in the realm of writing, she holds an interest in journalistic storytelling and envisions seamlessly incorporating her journalistic pursuits with the publication of her poetry. With Louis MacNeice Society, Georgia feels deeply privileged to contribute her creative energy through crafting content. Her journey is not only marked by academic achievements, but also by a profound appreciation for poetry, which she sees as a creative outlet for personal catharsis. Among her cherished literary influences stand luminaries such as Sylvia Plath, Constantine Cavafy, and Dante Alighieri, whose works continually inspire Georgia's creative endeavors.
Artists
Aldona Betcher
Aldona Betcher is a young creative currently based in the United Kingdom with a background in illustration and graphic design. She worked as a freelancer during and after graduating from Newcastle College University Centre with a bachelor’s degree in illustration, with a main focus on books and literature, creating illustrations and storyboards. Her passion for literature and reading led her to finding Louis MacNeice Society, a great opportunity to expand her skills and gain new experiences while working on projects she is immensely passionate about, as literature in its many forms was always a big influence on her growing up and had a huge impact on her choosing to specialise in storytelling and book illustrations. She is hoping to bring her work to newer audiences and progress further in her career in the creative industries.
Ava Moradi
Ava Moradi is currently studying for a BA (Hons) in Fine Arts at Goldsmiths University and is a designer and artist. As well as sculpture, painting and film, she also enjoys print design and poetry. She is currently writing her dissertation on the effects of exile on Iranian female artists and has been part of an exhibition, ‘Rise of the Symorgh,’ in Cardiff in 2022 supporting the recent protests in Iran. Ava started writing poetry two years ago due to a major life event but has always found solace in poetry. As well as a love for Iranian poetry, she discovered the work of Louis MacNeice and is excited to begin her association with the society. Ava is looking forward to using her artistic experience and to gain experience in media through meeting and interacting with new people and new forms of expression.
Christof Jennings
Christof Jennings began his singing career at the age of six. Initially performing in church, his vocal powers were recognised by his uncle, a music producer who later relocated to the United States from Jamaica in search of new chances. During their stay in South Carolina, they spent hours in a recording studio cutting demo recordings, which were subsequently utilised as tryouts for numerous groups, including 'Immature', and earned him a spot on the television show 'Star Search'. Unfortunately, this was short-lived; at the age of twelve Christof was transferred to the United Kingdom, where he began singing in the church choir, eventually taking on the primary duties as a vocalist. Along with tribute bands, Christof created and organised the monthly presentations 'It Is What It Is', 'Soul Food', and 'Soul Therapy', where he invited various area artists to perform songs supported by a live band. Christof recently wanted to further his songwriting skills, so he joined a Birmingham Music Awards competition and won a spot at Tileyard Education's 2020 Marrakech songwriting camp. Christof now runs his own recording company, Durham Records Inc.
Cyrus Ho
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Cyrus Ho is a creative worker now based in Manchester. Cyrus earned a BA in Fine Art and Design from Lancaster University and an MA in Art Gallery and Museum Studies from The University of Manchester. His current practices are mostly pen drawings, from automatic drawings to comical illustrations and surreal doodles, diving into themes of memory, the subconscious, the imagination and everyday experiences. Hoping to develop his illustrative ambitions, he is exploring different avenues to expand his skill set, creatively expressing and collaborating in varying projects. His work can be found primarily on instagram.com/chaqpie/.
Deandra D'Cunha
Deandra D’Cunha is currently a Children’s Book Illustration and Graphic Novels MA student at Middlesex University, London. She found her love for creating visual interpretations of literary texts after coming across William Blake’s ‘Songs of Innocence and Experience’ whilst studying a BA in English Literature at Sophia College, Mumbai. Growing up being enthusiastic about drawing and creativity led her to take up Illustration as a career. She also works as a freelance Illustrator and has illustrated a rhyme book for children, titled ‘Rhyme Time’. The marriage of literary texts and visual narratives is what continues to create a spark of creativity within Deandra. She is positive that joining Louis MacNeice Society will support her in expanding her creative practice, help her make connections with writers and captivate audiences with her creativity.
Elson Syla
Elson Syla is one of many next generation contemporary artists, looking to forge his name within the society of art and storytelling. With a strong desire to accomplish this, his main forms of practice are oil painting and writing. Through studying a BA in Fine art, he has also built a collection of illustrations and prints ranging from linos, etchings and screen prints. Syla’s passion relies on telling a story through a single frame. Through this he wishes his work will evolve into pieces with continuous frames. This passion first set roots from a young age reading and listening to stories from Greek mythology and Albanian history, including the likes of Odysseus and Skanderbeg. As the years went on, he has made it a practice to investigate more ancient tellings from different cultures and legends from the past. Elson’s quest is to retell these forgotten stories in a more contemporary fashion so that the public are reminded that life, society, and characters are not so different from the past.
Harry Carley
Harry Carley is an artist and illustrator from Kent, England. Having attended the University of Creative Arts in Canterbury he now works as an artist and freelance illustrator whilst also seeking to deepen his portfolio of personal work and better himself with each piece he produces. Having worked on multiple projects, the most recent being Julian Kitsz' debut novel, In Lucem, he has an engaging portfolio which expresses his passion for creating visual art. Though adept in multiple techniques, his practice revolves around drawing and print making moreover etching and producing unique monotypes. Commonly working with an achromatic palette he relies on experimental mark making and tonal variation to generate form and depth within his work. Many of his personal pieces are informed by conversations and on going self exploration delving into his own mind and emotions. In order to generate these pieces he relies on both lived experiences in addition to a photographic practice that captures moments of inspiration and nuance. Harry can be found on Instagram where he shares occasional teasers of what he is currently working on - https://www.instagram.com/harrycarleyart/
Jessica Pardoe
Jessica Pardoe graduated with first class honours in Illustration from Manchester Metropolitan University in 2023 and Fine Art from the University of the Arts London in 2020. The work she produces utilises a distinctive combination of classic illustrative capability and modern technology. She specialises in crafting illustrations that employ mixed media to create captivating final images, all while conducting extensive research on each topic she investigates. Research is the most important component of her creative practice, and it pervades all of her creative endeavours. Her visual storytelling concentrates on British mythology, history, and culture, and her goal is to make aesthetically descriptive imagery which is striking, appealing and accessible to a wide audience. Because her illustrated work is typically visually descriptive, her narrative illustrations are engaging to a broad audience. By mixing traditional illustration techniques (printmaking, drawing) with digital (Adobe Suite, Procreate), she has gained a significant number of illustrative abilities which she enjoys merging in the form of mixed media across various stand-alone illustrations and projects. However, her illustrative style is constantly altering, depending on the subject matter. Being a mixed media illustrator she can express her personality as an illustrator and creator on the one hand, and a complete epistemophile on the other. She also has her own portfolio which is titled JP Design.
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Our organisation aims to enhance awareness, visibility, and educational outreach. We leverage strategic partnerships with industry leaders, media outlets, and educational institutions to amplify our message. Through targeted content, social media campaigns, and public relations initiatives, we disseminate valuable information tailored to specific audiences. Our educational services, workshops, and seminars provide a platform for knowledge sharing, skill development, and critical dialogue. By engaging individuals through interactive webinars, online courses, and thought leadership platforms, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of our cause and galvanise action. Our data-driven approach allows us to monitor progress, adapt to evolving needs, and maximise our impact in raising awareness, empowering individuals, and shaping a more informed and engaged society.
Louis MacNeice Society Poetry Competition 2025!
Win the competition and get published on our website!
£5.00
Competition Details:
Entry Fee: £5
Poem Length: Up to 50 lines (please note that blank lines do not count)
Theme: Open! Feel free to explore your inspirations, but please keep in mind the aims of our organisation.
Maximum Entries: A maximum of 10 entries are allowed per poet.
Anonymity: All submissions will be anonymous during the judging process to ensure fairness.
Judging Criteria:
Creativity and Originality: How unique and innovative is the poem?
Language and Technique: Use of language, structure, and poetic devices.
Emotional Impact: The poem's ability to evoke feelings and provoke thought.
Adherence to Theme: While the theme is open, how well does the poem reflect the spirit of Louis MacNeice?
Prizes:
The winning poet will receive:
- £50 cash prize💷
- A piece of customised merchandise of their choice🎁
- An award's certificate🏆
- The prestigious title of Louis MacNeice Society Poetry Competition Winner 2025!
Important Dates:
Entry Deadline: Submit your poem by December 1st, 2025.
Winner Announcement: December 30th, 2025.
Eligibility:
Open to all poets aged 18 and over.
The poem must be completely your own.
Submission Process:
To enter, please submit your poem via our online submission form available on our website. Ensure that all identifying information is excluded from the submission document to maintain anonymity.
Feedback:
All entries will receive personalised feedback to help you grow as a poet and refine your craft.
Once your poem has been submitted, please be advised that it cannot be withdrawn. We appreciate your understanding of this policy, which is in place to ensure a fair and efficient evaluation process for all submissions. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out for clarification.
We can’t wait to read your poems and celebrate the beauty of language together. Your words have the power to inspire, provoke thought, and evoke emotion—share them with us!