October 4th, 2012
In its 40-year history, Index has showcased some of the world’s most remarkable poets, many of whom have faced intimidation for speaking out. To mark National Poetry Day, we republish two poets jailed for exercising their right to free speech (more…)
June 14th, 2011
Twenty-year-old student, Ayat al-Gormezi, who recited poems critical of Bahrain’s rulers at a Shia-led protest in Pearl Square has been sentenced to a year in prison. In the lead up to her trial she claimed that she was beaten in prison and she has now been convicted of charges which include inciting hatred. One verse of the poem, addressed directly to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, read: “We are the people who will kill humiliation and assassinate misery. Don’t you hear their cries?” According to her mother, Sada al-Qurmezi, an appeal is planned.Tags: Tags: Ayat al-Gormezi, Bahrain, freedom of expression, poetry,
March 22nd, 2010
The Times Stephen Spender Prize for poetry in translation is open for entries to all, with sections for young people, the challenge: to translate a poem from any language, classical or modern, into English.
The Stephen Spender Memorial Trust was set up in 1997 to honour Spender’s achievements as poet and translator of poetry, and as champion of the rights of creative artists and writers to free expression. He was the inspiration behind the founding of Index on Censorship in 1974.
All winning entries will be published, with cash prizes and selected winning translations published in The Times. Last posting date for entries is Friday 28 May 2010. Three categories: Open, 18-and-under and 14-and-under.
Read 2009’s winning entries at www.stephen-spender.org and details of this year’s entry rules. You can also write to the Stephen Spender Memorial Trust, 3 Old Wish Road, Eastbourne, East Sussex, BN21 4JX or email info@stephenspender.org.
Tags: Tags: poetry, prize, Stephen Spender, translation,
