Goonie

Goonie, the debut collection from award-winning Scottish poet and spoken word artist Michael Mullen, is a raw and joyful tribute to working-class life, queer resilience, and the electrifying power of language. With a sample of the work having won the prestigious Edwin Morgan Poetry Award in 2022, Goonie is already turning heads. Mullen's poetry embraces the full spectrum of human connection - familial, romantic, platonic - infusing it all with a sense of celebration.
Rooted in both Scots and Standard English, these poems explore identity, belonging, and the communities that shape us. In this collection, you'll find experimental forms, vibrant lyricism, and autobiographical snapshots that dive into themes of childhood, queer love, politics, and nature. Whether through intimate reflection or sharp humour, Mullen's work pulses with authenticity, blending the deeply personal with the universal.
With its bold mix of styles and voices, Goonie captures the magic of queer joy and working-class pride. It's a testament to how love - of ourselves, of others, of our heritage - transforms everything.