Poetry books

Oyster

A collection of poems published in 2017 by Polygon Books. This book, now in its seventh printing, was illustrated by Scott Hutchison — cover and inner illustrations — to whom Pedersen will never stop being grateful.

‘Leading the way in new Scottish Writing…Pedersen’s poems exist in a febrile realm of heightened emotion, they come pouring across the page like a rowdy crowd at a Hogmanay street party with an infectious enthusiasm for the downright amazingness of existence.’ — Scotsman

‘Michael's poems get under my skin. As well as defining and codifying my own experiences, they also challenge them. And I always feel more upbeat and hopeful after having read them. You really can't ask much more from a poet…If you like poetry that is cool, smart, hilarious and quirky and can just suddenly rip your heart out, Michael Pedersen is your man.’ —Irvine Welsh

Play With Me

Michael Pedersen’s debut collection published by Polygon in 2013 featuring illustrations by Carrie May.

‘A brilliant raw talent that deserves attention. When Salman Rushdie wrote Midnight’s Children, critics said that it sounded like a nation finding its voice. For me, this is what Pedersen’s poems sound like: the throaty voice of modern Scotland.’ —Inky Needles

‘One of Britain’s most exciting poets whose brilliance of mind is matched by the joy of his performance; he’s a rare combo: as exciting on the stage as he is on the page.’  —Daljit Nagra

‘You couldn’t ask for a finer poet to share the stage with.’ —Andrew Weatherall