John Lucas Remembered: A Gentle Poetry Editor, Fierce Cricket Captain
The literary and sporting worlds are mourning the loss of John Lucas, a figure celebrated for his remarkable dual legacy as a patient poetry editor and a fiercely competitive cricket captain. Tributes from colleagues and friends paint a vivid picture of a man who embodied contrasting personas in his professional and sporting lives.
A Respected Poetry Editor with Intuitive Guidance
For over two decades, John Lucas served as a poetry editor, earning deep respect from the writers he worked with. Christine McNeill, one of his long-time collaborators, recalls his editorial style as both subtle and profoundly effective. His feedback typically consisted of a few queries and suggestions, meticulously written in spidery pencil in the margins of manuscripts. McNeill emphasises that his approach was always respectful, demonstrating a keen understanding of the poet's intended message.
She notes that a simple question mark from Lucas could be enough to send her back to work, prompting revisions in areas he hadn't even marked. This intuitive guidance left a lasting impact, for which she expresses enduring gratitude. His correspondence was equally supportive, characterised by kind, encouraging, and enthusiastic letters, often signed off with his customary "All the best, in haste."
Consistent Support for Poets Through Shoestring Press
Beyond his editorial role, Lucas was also the publisher of Shoestring Press, where he provided unwavering support to poets, including those he described as "established but unfashionable." Another poet, John Harvey, acknowledges the care and consistent backing Lucas offered to his work. This dedication helped nurture diverse voices in the poetry community, highlighting his commitment to the literary arts.
A Demanding Cricket Captain on the Field
In stark contrast to his gentle editorial demeanour, John Lucas displayed a far more assertive and competitive side as the captain of the Nottingham University Staff cricket XI. Harvey, who occasionally played for the team, recounts instances where Lucas's patience wore thin on the cricket pitch. During one memorable match, frustrated by Harvey's repeated forward defensive prods, Lucas shouted, "If you can't score some bloody runs, for God's sake get out and let in someone who can!"
This anecdote underscores how Lucas could be "less patient and forgiving" as a cricket captain, driven by a passion for performance and victory. His leadership style on the field was direct and demanding, reflecting the intense focus often required in competitive sports.
Legacy of Dual Passions
John Lucas's life serves as a testament to the rich tapestry of human character, where patience and impatience coexisted in different arenas. His contributions to poetry publishing through thoughtful editing and support at Shoestring Press have left an indelible mark on the literary world. Simultaneously, his spirited captaincy in cricket reminds us of the diverse roles individuals can play, each requiring unique strengths and approaches.
As tributes continue to pour in, it is clear that Lucas will be remembered not just for his professional achievements, but for the dynamic and multifaceted person he was—both in the quiet margins of a manuscript and on the bustling cricket field.
