In a general way, I want to be a kind of flag waver, bunting hanger up, drum beater, you name it, for poetry

In a general way, I want to be a kind of flag waver, bunting hanger up, drum beater, you name it, for poetry

Andrew Motion, the former Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom, has long been a champion of poetry and its power to inspire, provoke, and move readers. In his own words, Motion has expressed a desire to be a "flag waver, bunting hanger up, drum beater" for poetry in a general way. This statement encapsulates his passion for the art form and his commitment to promoting its importance in society.

Motion's dedication to poetry is evident in his extensive body of work, which includes numerous collections of poetry, critical essays, and biographies of poets such as Philip Larkin and John Keats. Throughout his career, Motion has sought to celebrate the beauty and complexity of language through his own writing and through his advocacy for poetry as a vital form of expression.

As Poet Laureate from 1999 to 2009, Motion used his platform to raise awareness of poetry and its ability to capture the essence of human experience. He traveled throughout the UK, visiting schools, libraries, and community centers to share his love of poetry and encourage others to explore the power of language. Motion's efforts to engage with diverse audiences and promote poetry as a means of connecting people from all walks of life have had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of the UK.