I am motivated by injustices and needy under-dogs. My poetry could be called protest poetry, and some of the "targets" have been the Israeli Defence Forces and their Gazan seige and murders and those Mormons who vilify gay people and drive them to despair and suicide. Three people have had a major influence on me: Stephen Fry, whose book "The Ode Less Travelled" is a constant companion and help; Dr Gabriele Cocco who inspired me with the depth of his love for and knowledge of modern English and its antecedents and Helena Anderson my guru of an art teacher whose main inspiration was the love of her subject and the effort she puts into life. My partner of 40 years, Teh, has been a silent companion in my journey, tolerant and always supportive to a degree I do not deserve. I must also mention all those men whose love and kindness over the years have been enervating and, well, perhaps I should not describe the rest of their contributions in print!