Anthony Lawrence (poet)

Anthony Lawrence (born 1957) is an Australian poet, novelist, and educator. He is known for his evocative and often darkly humorous poetry which explores themes of nature, family, trauma, and the human condition.

Lawrence's poetry is characterized by its vivid imagery, lyrical language, and unflinching engagement with difficult subjects. He frequently incorporates Australian landscapes and wildlife into his work, using them as metaphors for internal states and societal issues. His poems often grapple with themes of loss, violence, and the complexities of human relationships.

He has published numerous collections of poetry, including:

• Dreaming Mum's Funeral (1992)
• The Darkwood Aquarium (2006) - winner of the Prime Minister's Literary Award for Poetry.
• Bark (2012) - winner of the Queensland Literary Award for Poetry.
• Head and Shin (2016) - winner of the Victorian Premier's Literary Award for Poetry.
• Magnetic Reluctance (2019).

In addition to poetry, Lawrence has also written a novel, The Welfare of My Enemy (2021).

Lawrence has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, solidifying his position as a significant voice in contemporary Australian literature. He is highly regarded for his ability to blend lyrical beauty with unflinching honesty, creating poetry that is both deeply moving and intellectually stimulating. He currently teaches creative writing at various institutions and remains an active figure in the Australian literary scene.