The Felix Dennis Foundation

On the 10th anniversary of Felix Dennis' death, we leave you with his poignant poem, 'I Just Stepped Out'.

Felix Dennis' poem "The Years Descend" reflects on the passage of time and aging. It portrays time as an unstoppable force that changes everything, emphasizing the inevitability of growing older. It urges readers to appreciate the present and find value in every stage of life.

Jay Bernard is from London and works as a writer and film programmer at BFI Flare (London’s LGBT film festival). They are the author The Red and Yellow Nothing, English Breakfast, and Your Sign is Cuckoo, Girl, and have been featured in numerous anthologies and magazines.

Felix Dennis' poem "Seeds" uses the metaphor of planting seeds to explore legacy and time. It suggests our actions grow and bear fruit long after we're gone, highlighting the enduring impact of our contributions despite life's brevity.

Kaveh Akbar is the author of Pilgrim Bell and Calling a Wolf a Wolf. He is also the author of the chapbook Portrait of the Alcoholic (Sibling Rivalry, 2017) and editor of The Penguin Book of Spiritual Verse: 110 Poets on the Divine (2022).

Felix Dennis' explains that relying solely on a job won't usually make you rich. Instead, wealth often comes from taking risks and creating your own opportunities rather than working for someone else.

A winner of the Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award 2006 and 2007, Richard O’Brien’s publications include The Emmores (The Emma Press, 2014) and A Bloody Mess (Valley Press, 2015), and work in a range of magazines and anthologies.

In "England 2010", Felix reflects on the multifaceted identity of his homeland. Through concise verses, he encapsulates how England's culture is deteriorating over time, evoking a sense of wistfulness.

Olivia Gatwood is a poet, novelist, and screenwriter from Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has received international recognition for her poetry, writing workshops, and work as a Title IX Compliant educator in sexual assault prevention and recovery.

In "The Shield of Art," Felix Dennis extols the power of creativity to shield against life's adversities. Through succinct verses, he portrays art as a protector, offering solace and strength in the face of challenges.

Sophie Collins grew up in Bergen, North Holland, and now lives in Edinburgh. She is the author of the poetry collection Who Is Mary Sue? and Small White Monkeys, a text on self-expression, self-help, and shame.

“The First of May" by Felix Dennis sarcastically discusses the end of spring with vivid imagery and rhythmic language to encapsulate just how cold the UK can be during these supposedly ‘warmer’ months.

Cynthia is a Malaysian-American poet based in Edinburgh. Her debut collection Honorifics won an Eric Gregory and was shortlisted for the Forward Prize for Best First Collection. She also co-founded the award-winning Verve Poetry Festival.

Felix’s words explore the idea of working with others for mutual benefit until that comes to an end.

Hollie McNish is a celebrated British poet known for her candid exploration of topics like parenthood and feminism. McNish's dynamic spoken word performances and advocacy for social justice have made her a significant figure in contemporary literature.

This #EarthDay, we share Felix’s ‘Very small our Earth...’, which portrays the message that there is more than meets the eye.

Andrew McMillan is a British poet acclaimed for his honest exploration of masculinity, intimacy, and desire. His debut collection "Physical" won the Guardian First Book Award, while "Playtime" further established him as a leading voice in contemporary poetry.

‘April 15’ shows the changing of seasons reflected in the mood of humans. A tasteful, short poem relevant on this date. #felixdennis #poetsociety #poetcommunity

Sarah Howe is a British poet. Her debut collection, "Loop of Jade," won the T.S. Eliot Prize in 2015, making her the first British poet of Chinese descent to receive the award. Howe's poetry delves into themes of diaspora and belonging, reflecting her diverse cultural background.

Felix Dennis' 'School Outing' poignantly portrays a deserted hamlet and the reflection of once was.