British poet Jeff Hilson to lead experimental sonnet workshop

British poet, editor, and critic Jeff Hilson is visiting Cyprus to host an experimental sonnet workshop at the Sardam festival. Known for his career of subverting literary norms, Hilson aims to guide participants in exploring the fluid origins and potential transformations of the sonnet form. By challenging the traditional "petrified" rules of the 14-line iambic structure, he encourages poets to break away from conventions established in 16th-century England.

Throughout his career, Hilson has published five poetry collections and edited the landmark anthology 'The Reality Street Book of Sonnets,' which features works from 84 writers. He also serves as a co-founder of the Xing the Line reading series in London, which has been operating for 25 years. His work often blends high-concept academic critique with unconventional themes, such as fungi or bird-watching, to critique institutional language. The upcoming workshop represents his ongoing efforts to demonstrate that the sonnet remains a highly malleable form capable of resisting artistic stagnation.