The Looters, his fifth collection of poetry, confirms Robert Minhinnick’s reputation as one of the most original poets writing today. The startling imagery, the rich texture of his language, the sheer craftsmanship of his work show us why he has been called ’the outstanding poet of his generation in Britain’ (Outposts). In The Looters Minhinnick combines this eloquence with deeply-felt themes of political and racial oppression, mental illness and environmental destruction. Many of the people in these poems live under pressure, yet the humour and compassion of the poet, and their own resilience sees them face an often inhospitable society in a world which, ecologically, is winding down.