“The idea of being a career poet is an odd one to most of us – writing poetry doesn’t pay, for a start – but it implies someone who is out there seeking publication and renown, and respect from one’s peers. Kris Hemensley doesn’t seek such things. And yet he’s been writing seriously and steadily for 40 years, his work is held in very high regard, and he has arguably done more for poetry than anyone else in Melbourne.”