The world of poetry was once again engulfed in controversy yesterday as the news emerged that newly appointed Poet Laureate, Carol Ann Duffy, previously starred in the 1975 porn film “Blackpool Donkey Ride”.
The 54 year old was awarded the prestigious post after winning the phone vote in last night’s final of “Britain’s Got Sonnets” which was watched by a record 17 million viewers, making it the BBC’s most popular programme in recent years. Her victory was seen as a historic turning point for state-appointed poets, as she is the first ever woman with short hair to hold the position.
Speaking outside her home in Winchester, Duffy told reporters “While I am sorry for any upset I may have caused for the viewing public, especially those who spent their hard earned one pound fifties to phone in and vote for me, I would like to put the past behind me and move on with my new career.” She went on to point out that she had only accepted a role in the film to earn money for quills and parchment.
Many fans were quick to voice their disappointment, however, with one person leaving the following comment on the BBC website “I voted for Carol because I love the way she makes clever use of caesurae and enjambment to add life and texture to her poetry whilst working within the confines of the traditional iambic pentameter, but now I just don’t know what to think. I’m very angry. I want my one pound fifty back.”