Here we are in the world of the 17^thcentury reformers, post English civil war, of Christopher Hill’sThe World Turned Upside Down, of Leon Rosselson’s 20^thcentury song of the same title, covered by Billy Bragg at a later date. Simon Jenner in a mood of democratic revival, generated by hope of a renewed radicalism in the Labour Party, has framed a series of poems based around the writings of Gerard Winstanley, leader of the Diggers whose failed attempt at setting up a democratic commune at St. George’s Hill in 1649 has inspired a multitude of radical movements ever since. These 36 poems are a mix of inspired experimentation, rich historical materials and intellectual curiosity typical of this poet’s considerable output.Winstanleyis a great read but one to be taken slowly, with relish, where careful re-reading will improve the response. There’s also plenty of emotional…