Outlandish

Jo Clement's Outlandish is a powerful exploration of British Gypsy identity, weaving together themes of otherness and cultural resilience through evocative poetry.

In her debut collection, Outlandish, Jo Clement challenges the Romanticized views of British Gypsy ethnicity, skillfully dismantling these misconceptions through her poignant poetry. Her work delves into themes of otherness, trespass, and the intricate art of craft, inviting readers to engage with the complexities of identity and belonging. With a rich tapestry of imagery, she traverses the landscapes of ancient stopping places and contemporary council estates, weaving together elegiac Romanes, English, and birdsong in her verses.

Clement's poetry serves as both a celebration and a protest, poignantly addressing the brutal legacy of the Gypsy, Roma, and Traveller diaspora. Outlandish tenderly highlights the resilience of a hidden and threatened culture, illuminating the voices that often go unheard. The collection is a lyrical exploration of the intersections between personal and collective histories, revealing the beauty and struggles of those who exist on the margins.

Born in Darlington in 1986, Jo Clement has established herself as a significant voice in contemporary poetry. With a PhD in Creative Writing from Newcastle University, she has previously published two pamphlets, including Moveable Type (2020). Now a lecturer at Northumbria University, she also serves as the editor of Butcher’s Dog poetry magazine and has founded the Wagtail imprint with support from the European Roma Institute for Arts and Culture (ERIAC).