It was with a deep sadness that I found out about the recent death of Nigel Jenkins, co-director of the Swansea Uni Creative Writing Programme which I was so fortunate to be part of. Besides being an outstanding poet and writer, Nigel was a remarkable man who will be missed by many, both in the beautiful land of Wales and far beyond.
For me, he was one of those very rare people- someone I considered both a mentor and a friend. He was the best type of teacher- critiquing without being critical, spurring you on without wearing you down; always gently demanding excellence. He was inspirational, generous with his time, and unfailingly supportive. His passion for writing was infectious, but so too was his enthusiasm for life.
Nigel was not one for the ivory towers, always choosing instead to be in the cafes and pubs with his students. It was there, as much as in the classroom, that you would be likely to catch glimpses of a greatness he often hid behind his baritone voice and hearty laugh. Those evenings with him always felt like they came to an end much too early, and now his untimely demise feels much the same.
While I cannot help but mourn his passing, Nigel, along with his words, his wit and his wisdom, will always remain in a warm corner of the memory; a place the tides of time cannot quite reach, and where the sun always shines.
Diolch i chi, Nigel, a hwyl fawr.
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