Jon Silkin as Anthologist, Editor, and Translator

Abstract

This article draws on the papers of Jon Silkin (1930–1997) held in the Brotherton Library, University of Leeds, to analyse Silkin's crucial yet neglected role as a commissioner, editor, and translator of modern poetry. Particular attention is given to his work on anthologies of modern Hebrew and Japanese poetry, which remained uncompleted on his death. Silkin closely collaborated with a range of local poets and translators, relying on them as expert informants for the selection of texts and to provide him with literals. This article discusses the complex powerplays that result when the various actors clash over their expectations of such anthologies.