Poet Laureate Praises Arctic Monkeys

The current Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy has praised Arctic Monkeys, claiming they help bridge the gap between pop and poetry.

Arctic Monkeys have always enjoyed a certain literary kudos. Alex Turner's lyrics spoke eloquently of drab Northern existence, bringing to life pimps and pushers, dingy nightclubs and a decaying Britain.

Recently returning with their new album 'Humbug' the band proved that they were still on vivid form. Arctic Monkeys bowled over critics and fans alike, scoring hit singles with tracks such as 'Crying Lightning'.

Now the current Poet Laureate has claimed that she is a fan. A position dating back centuries, previous holders of the title include Wordsworth and Tennyson.

The first woman to hold the position, Carol Ann Duffy made history last year. Speaking to Associated Press about an upcoming charity event, the poet was keen to point out the narrow divide between pop and poetry.

"Leonard Cohen's songs are poems, I saw him twice when he was touring here last year, Bob Dylan writes poems and the Arctic Monkeys write poems," she told the Press Association. "They (the Arctic Monkeys) are great lyric writers."

Duffy has been helping to organise Poetry Live For Haiti, an event which aims to raise money for the stricken island. The line up also contains Andrew Motion, Roger McGough and many more.

Taking place on January 30th, the event comes as Arctic Monkeys donate one of their guitars to the same cause. Worn by Alex Turner in the video for their single 'I Bet You Look Good On The Danceflooor' the instrument will be sold in aid of charities working in Haiti.