The Poetry Hour: W. H. Auden, a British Library Stream - Jersey Festival of Words 2026

Of the poet, playwright and essayist W.H. Auden, Josephine Hart said 'His poems contain some of the most succinct, elegant and unforgettable lines in literature. They sear themselves into our consciousness. A poetic inquisitor, he drills deep in ‘the deserts of the heart’'.

For this celebratory evening, Auden’s work is read by a celebrated cast of actors including Tim McInnerny who’s many stage, film and television roles include Blackadder, Notting Hill and Game of Thrones.

Presented by The Josephine Hart Poetry Foundation in association with the British Library and the Eccles
Institute for the Americas at the British Library.