Andrew Motion on Wilfred Owen: A Poet's Sacred Text 2026

Andrew Motion describes how Wilfred Owen became a kind of sacred text for him, shaping his poetic voice. In this exclusive interview, the former UK Poet Laureate shares his earliest reading memories, the books that changed him as a teenager, and the authors he still reveres. Whether you're a poetry enthusiast or a budding writer, Motion's journey offers timeless lessons on finding inspiration.

Early Reading Memories

Motion recalls his parents as country people who valued outdoor activities over reading. His father claimed to have read only half a book in his life—The Lonely Skier by Hammond Innes—while his mother read three or four novels a year. Yet, a gift from his grandmother sparked his love for stories: My Father's Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett. At age seven, Motion found it amusing and ingenious, marking his first step into literature.

The Book That Changed Him as a Teenager

At his first school, Motion got his hands on White Eagles Over Serbia by Lawrence Durrell, which his parents deemed unsuitably violent. He never finished it but enjoyed carrying it as proof of his maturity. Then, at secondary school, his history teacher read Wilfred Owen during a lesson on World War I. “The poetry-lights in my mind immediately flickered on,” Motion says. He bought Owen's Collected Poems, which became a sacred text that still influences him today.

How a Poetry Anthology Sparked His Writing Career

Motion didn't plan to become a writer until he found himself writing. His A-level poetry anthology, Theme and Variations edited by RB Heath, felt like “breaking into Tutankhamun’s tomb.” Despite its austere title, the book ignited his creative tinkering. He began crafting his own poems, eventually leading to a celebrated career as a poet and critic.

Authors He Returned To

Motion admits that Alexander Pope initially baffled him with dense references. But 50 years later, Pope is one of his most admired poets. Similarly, Wordsworth’s The Prelude and John Berryman’s 77 Dream Songs remain essential rereads—poetic autobiographies that feel like “the breath of life.”

Comparison of Influential Books

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Writers

• Start early: Even a single book can ignite a lifelong passion.
• Embrace difficulty: Challenging texts like Pope's work can become favorites over time.
• Find your sacred text: A book that resonates deeply can shape your creative identity.
• Reread classics: Returning to influential works offers new insights and inspiration.

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