Jonathan Russell was born in Bangor, Wales, and has lived in Brighton and Shoreham. He holds an honorary Doctorate of Literature from the London Institute of Applied Research. He is honorary Professor of Humanities with the Institute of Higher Economic and Social Studies in Brussels, Belgium. As a poet, his work has appeared in various university journals. In 1998 and 1999 he won the American Poetry Association's grand prize. His previous books of poetry include The Sea Cries Over My Shoulder and Whispers.