Poet: Irving Layton Observed

Poet: Irving Layton Observed

| 52 min

This feature documentary is a portrait of the life and work of Canadian poet Irving Layton. Here, the artist who long masked himself in controversy, unexpectedly agrees to be unmasked in front of the camera. The 1981 Nobel nominee not only reads and explicates his own writings, but also speaks incisively about Canadian literature itself, defining it metaphorically as a "double hook" that combines "beauty and terror."

For more background info on this film, visit the NFB.ca blog.

Credits
  • director
    Donald Winkler
  • producer
    William Brind
  • executive producer
    Barrie Howells
  • photography
    Barry Perles
  • sound
    Claude Hazanavicius
    Jean-Guy Normandin
  • editing
    Torben Schioler
  • sound editing
    Abbey Jack Neidik
  • music
    Alain Clavier


Poet: Irving Layton Observed
Also available
  • scandia

    He is, of course, provocative and the documentary shows his flamboyant personality. One might not agree with everything he says (Choke cherries do not die- they are the seeds of the next generation) The strength of the documentary comes mainly from his recitals and the comments he makes on his own poetry. Poetry is a mirror of the creators soul and a window to his (or her) personality.

    scandia, 16 Mar 2012

Embed this code on your site

Poet: Irving Layton Observed, Donald Winkler, provided by the National Film Board of Canada

Video player width

by Reset
The NFB is committed to respecting your privacy

We use cookies to ensure that our site works efficiently, as well as for advertising purposes.

If you do not wish to have your information used in this way, you can modify your browser settings before continuing your visit.

Learn more