Crafting change: Breaking barriers and celebrating the diversity of British poetry

From breaking down traditional barriers in the literary world to leading major initiatives in British poetry, Professor Daljit Nagra is shaping the future of literature for the next generation of writers.

Daljit Nagra is Professor of Creative Writing at Brunel, Chair of the Royal Society of Literature, Council of The Society of Authors, national advisor to Poetry By Heart, a Poetry Book Society New Generation Poet and presenter on BBC Radio 4 Extra's Poetry Extra. He's published four collections of poetry with Faber & Faber and has won numerous awards. In 2023, he was commissioned by the BBC and the Royal Palace to write a poem for the King’s coronation, which was read by James Nesbitt.

But, despite having such a distinguished career, he says there have been challenges too, like facing criticism from traditionalists who can be resistant to change. These experiences have only strengthened his commitment to modernising and diversifying the arts.

Exploring multiculturalism and inclusivity in British poetry

My work in poetry is all about exploring multiculturalism in Britain, especially the relationships between first and second-generation migrants. I dive into broader societal issues, examining what's happening in today's world and exploring current events.

>I'm very keen to see if I can help diversify the arts, and of literature in particular, across the country. A big passion of mine is to make the arts more inclusive for people from working-class backgrounds and those outside of London.

Through my poetry, I feel I'm adding a fresh language to the various debates that are ongoing about inequality and difference in today's world.

Professor Daljit Nagra

From migrant roots to literary milestones

I was the first poet of color to have their debut collection published by Faber & Faber in their 80-year history and the first person of color to chair the Royal Society of Literature in its 200-year history. I was also the first poet in residence for BBC Radio 4. Coming from a background where my parents were uneducated migrants working in manual labor, my journey and achievements in the literary field are quite unique.

I've had a lot of unique "firsts" and have worked in various roles in the arts. Plus, with my weekly program running for eight years, I've probably had more on-air exposure than most writers in the country, which, given my background, is pretty unusual.

The healing power of poetry

My love for poetry started when I was 19. I didn’t study poetry in school, but I found it transformative during a tough time in my life. Poetry became a source of joy and wellbeing for me. Now, I’m passionate about showing others, especially those from marginalised or working-class backgrounds, the therapeutic benefits of poetry. I believe poetry can offer a healthy intervention in an unequal society, providing a sense of ownership and wellbeing.

Brunel is my local university - I grew up just down the road in Yiewsley, and now live in Harrow, so Brunel was a natural choice for me. I’m very invested in the area, regularly visiting schools and getting involved in various projects in the community. I'm also very mindful that Brunel has a large number of commuter students, and students from working-class backgrounds, many of whom are the first in their families to attend university. These are all things of importance to me, so I get a great sense of value working with both these students and the wider community.

Brunel provides a diverse and inclusive environment. I feel we're really good at filling students with ambition - that you are good enough, you have a voice, you are entitled, no matter where you come from. This aligns perfectly with my goal of diversifying literature. There are some excellent academics here who are also passionate about this also, which means our Creative Writing department is particularly supportive in this regard – something I really value.

"Brunel is really good at filling students with ambition - that you are good enough, you have a voice, you are entitled, no matter where you come from."

Professor Daljit Nagra

Overcoming difference through poetry

My poetry itself is about overcoming difference. With my Poetry Extra programme, we’re committed to showcasing a diverse range of voices. It won’t just be white male poets - we’ll feature women, poets from different parts of the world, and those from various working-class backgrounds.

A lot of my work promotes understanding and empathy - presenting ordinary Punjabis as they actually are, and highlighting the similarities among different cultural groups. I'm trying to find ways to help Britain understand itself and its diverse population. I feel I'm adding a fresh language to the various debates that are ongoing about inequality and difference in today's world.

And finally: a word of advice for aspiring writers and poets

Believe in yourself and the possibility of success. Be resilient and tenacious. Perseverance is key, and you shouldn’t be discouraged by a lack of initial interest or support – don't worry about what other people think. Enjoy the art form and write for fun and pleasure. Overcoming hurdles is part of the journey, and success often comes when you least expect it. 

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