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How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside: An Alternative Guide to Writing and Enjoying Poetry

by Brian Bilston

Hardback £16.99
Published 16th April 2026
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Description

Why do we write poetry?
Who should write it?
And where do you even start?


Well, Brian Bilston, one of the UK’s most hilarious and best-loved poets, is here to take us through the hows, whys and whats of reading, writing and enjoying poetry every day.

With his characteristic wit and charm, Bilston accompanies us through the jungle of imagination to the source of inspiration, takes us under the bonnet of a sonnet and over the fear of literary devices. He gives us a whirlwind tour through the history of verse, and shows us why human poetry will always triumph over any attempts by AI.

Showcasing over a hundred brand new poems, and including practical critiques of some of his greatest hits, every page is an immensely pleasurable deep-dive into the life-affirming craft of poetry and a passionate argument for why we should all pick up a pen.

How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside is for anyone who loves words and all the things they can do.

Details

How to Lay an Egg with a Horse Inside: An Alternative Guide to Writing and Enjoying Poetry
by Brian Bilston

ISBN
9781035085729

Publisher
Pan Macmillan

Binding
Hardback

Publication date
April 16, 2026

Dimensions
21.8cm x 16.1cm x 2.5cm

Excerpt