July 2022: My ninth collection, called Thicket: shades from the Eastern Cape, was published by Minimal Press. A few copies are still available from me. I look forward to hearing from you.

I was interviewed and featured in the inspirational Green Renaissance video called Life Is Magic: https://reflectionsof.life/life-is-magic

McGregor Poetry Festival took a breather in 2023 but returned in November 2024 for this wonderfully vibrant occasion in the lovely Western Cape village of McGregor. Visit https://poetryinmcgregor.co.za/ for more.

In addition, an exciting new Western Cape venture, Elgin Poetry Festival, made its debut in 2026. Bursting with poetic talent, it looks set to become an annual event: ELGIN POETRY FESTIVAL: 24-26 July 2026

May 2024: I was awarded my PhD in Creative Writing with the University of Pretoria. It included a new draft poetry collection called To the foothills, which eventually became Mindforest; and a thesis called Towards a new default discourse for the Earth: the poetry of Chris Mann and Dan Wylie.

My poem called ‘Rustlers at Bethlehem Farm’ was shortlisted in the SA National Poetry Prize, 2023. It is featured along with all the winners in the excellent Jack Journal, vol. 6, 2023. https://brucejack.com/jack-journal/

Publication: My article called ‘Dan Wylie’s Poetry and a New Default Discourse for the Earth’ was published (29 November 2024) in English Studies in Africa. It explores how an eco poetic language, such as that of South Africa’s Dan Wylie, offers benefits to the modern world:
https://www.tandfonline.com/share/4VUPJB3IEP6CFKMDGHPW?target=10.1080/00138398.2024.2424106

For more on Dan Wylie: https://www.netsoka.co.za

News Flash: my latest poetry collection (formerly To the Foothills) has been revised and expanded and is now called Mindforest. It is published by Quilled Ink Press and may be ordered through Amazon or via the publisher, here: Quilled Ink Press / Authors / Harry Owen

I am often available for readings, events, school visits and the like, so please feel free contact me to discuss things if you wish.