Over There

London's Guardian speculates on potential nominees for the post of Poet Laureate in the UK, which comes vacant next year. Their leading canditate is Carol Ann Duffy. If she gets the nod, Duffy will be the first woman to hold the position. Ten years ago, when the job was last available, Duffy was considered an unlikely candidate, as she was an unmarried mother in a relationship with another woman. This time around, times have changed (although Duffy is still a mother), and Duffy's reputation and popularity have grown.

The Poet Laureate is charged with composing poetry for the queen on special occasions. It's a largely ceremonial position, and the PL no longer receives "a butt of sack" (108 gallons of sweet wine), as was once the case. Still, most critics agree it's a good gig.--David E

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Update (5/22/08): Now the Independent says there's a groundswell of support among literati for a women to be appointed Poet Lauret. They have a rundown of the top candidates here.--David E