Safe MetamorphosisSafe Metamorphosis is the debut poetry collection from alternative hip hop spoken word artist and storyteller Otis Mensah, Sheffields first Poet Laureate. Mensahs work challenges dominant modes of masculinity, and disrupts the elitism of poetry through its accessible, honest, raw and intimate language and rhythms. Free from the constraints of convention, Mensah writes in his own, unique voice, layered with rhythm and surreal imagery, unified by its

but reveal a subtle underscurrent of continued questioning of the world around us

The original application of the word 'diaspora'

he has returned whenever possible to the home of his birth to give readings and poetry-writing workshops

or the meaning behind a broken watch

all of whom grew up to become major beacons of modernity

they write eloquently and forcefully on human issues such as loss

Amal Nawwar

They take us with verve and energy through labyrinths of volumes

Kate Kenyon

demonstrate what a very fine poet he is

Victor Feldman

finding everywhere they look detail worthy of notice