Nominations open for Oxford professor of poetry poll

The nomination period for election to the prestigious post of Oxford Professor of Poetry opens on Thursday amidst speculation whether noted Indian poet Arvind Mehrotra would be one of the leading candidates.

In the election held in May 2009,  Mehrotra lost to Ruth Padel, who stood down before taking the appointment under controversial circumstances when her involvement in a campaign against one of the candidates during the election was revealed. Nominations close on May 5 and for the first time in the history of the post, those eligible to vote will be able to do so online.

The candidates need to be nominated by at least 12 members of the Convocation — all former Oxford University students who have graduated, as well as current and retired members of Congregation (the University’s ‘parliament’).

Full report here Hindu