In (early) celebration of National Poetry Day on Friday 26 August, Jesse catches up with Selina Tusitala Marsh who performed a poem for the Queen this year.
Selina Tusitala Marsh Photo: nzpoetryshelf.com
After the performance the Queen asked Selina how she had memorised her poem. “I said to her “I’m a poet, Your Majesty. It’s my job.” Then I had to the cheek to say "And call me if you want another one”.
Selina says that her conversation with Prince Phillip was the most memorable, though.
Prince Philip: "Oh, and you are...?
Selina: "I'm Dr Selina Tusitala Marsh from the University of Auckland".
Prince Philip: "And what what do you do?"
Selina: "I'm a poet."
Prince Phillip: "Yes, yes, but what do you do?"
Selina: "I teach post-colonial literature".
Philip looks at Selina, head askance. ‘Post?’
