Poet John Cooper Clarke, often referred to as the Bard of Salford and recognized as the poet laureate of punk, has released his fourth book titled Have It. This collection features his trademark wry observations about aging, the passage of time, and contemporary life.

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At 77, Clarke considers himself somewhat of a national treasure, a label he finds unappealing. He first performed professionally in 1974 at Manchester's Embassy club, where he was mentored by comedian Bernard Manning. His initial recording, an EP entitled Innocents, was released in 1977, produced by renowned Joy Division producer Martin Hannett. Throughout his career, he has received notable accolades, including an honorary doctorate and having three of his poems included in the national curriculum for GCSE English. His memoir, I Wanna Be Yours, published in 2020, became a bestseller.

Clarke's poetry has gained a diverse fan base, featuring prominently in the work of artists such as Arctic Monkeys' Alex Turner and Ben Drew, known as Plan B. A highlight in his career was the use of his poem Evidently Chickentown in the closing credits of an episode of The Sopranos, a series he admires.

In the opening poem of his new collection, A Cheap Agnostic Funeral, Clarke references his “diminishing crew,” expressing the realities of aging with humor and candidness. He believes many older individuals can relate to his reflections on the inability to plan for the future and the importance of living in the moment, a perspective shaped by being a sick child.

Clarke acknowledged that he feels his poetry has evolved, admitting to a certain level of shame regarding some of his earlier work. He pointed out that everyone is entitled to have a naive worldview in their youth.

When asked about the loss of friends, he quipped about attending multiple funerals weekly but noted that he is selective in his engagements. He described his health as stable, stating he does not feel particularly healthy but is not ill either.

Clarke humorously critiqued modern life, particularly the dangers present on pavements due to vehicles and scooters. Despite not exercising much, he plans to get his vintage bike, a 1959 Hercules, back in working order for leisurely rides in Essex.

His poem Gelt addresses the contemporary decline of cash transactions, reflecting on how it affects social dynamics, particularly for beggars.

Clarke appreciates various poets but particularly admires John Betjeman for his recitation skills, contrasting him with Oscar Wilde, whose delivery he criticized. He avoids naming contemporary poets to prevent omitting anyone from his list of favorites, acknowledging numerous talented individuals in the industry.

Reading remains a constant in Clarke's life; currently, he is enjoying a biography of Jerry Lewis by Shawn Levy.

When it comes to his political views, Clarke prefers to remain neutral, acknowledging the shifting definitions of political ideologies over time. He expressed reluctance to engage deeply in political discussions, valuing his transgenerational fan base.

Clarke believes that art, including poetry, is fundamentally useless and that its value diminishes when used for propaganda. He has taken on commissions, including poems for a gin brand, but maintains that they stand as individual pieces of art.

Amid his reflections, he shared a favorite saying from a friend about the futility of trying to educate those unwilling to learn. As for regrets, Clarke admitted he has many but chose not to elaborate.

Upcoming, John Cooper Clarke will perform at the Laugharne Weekend from March 19-21, 2027, with tickets available through members of Nerve.