Malcolm Lowry From the Mersey to the World

Malcolm Lowry described Liverpool as ‘that terrible city whose main street is the ocean'. Born on the Wirral side of the river Mersey, Lowry's relationship to the Merseyside of his youth informs all of his writing and Liverpool itself continued to hold tremendous significance for him, even though he never returned. Published in conjunction with a festival and exhibition at Liverpool's Bluecoat arts centre celebrating Lowry's centenary, this beautifully produced book showcases a variety of creative and critical approaches to Lowry and his work, and includes twelve specially commissioned pieces of new writing. There is a particular focus on place and on journeys; contributors write from the UK, Europe, Canada and Mexico, and reflect both on Lowry's ‘voyage that never ends' and on their own journeys with and through Lowry's work. The book also demonstrates the richness of Lowry's influence on contemporary visual artists and includes full colour illustrations throughout. It will be an indispensable companion for anyone interested in the creative legacy of Malcolm Lowry's life and work.

Bryan Biggs is curator of the Lowry season at the Bluecoat, which includes visual art, music, literature, dance and participation. He was awarded an MBE for services to the arts on Merseyside, 1996. Helen Tookey is a successful freelance writer, editor and scholar (clients include Carcanet Press, Tate Liverpool, FACT, Liverpool Biennial) and also a published poet.