Steve May (November 2025)

In November 2025, we were delighted to welcome back a long-time regular of King Ink, Steve May. With his son, Sam, providing music and visuals, Steve’s set was a joyful and moving tribute to his wife, Pauline.

King Ink turned up in numbers that night, both to see Steve perform and to remember Pauline. From a packed open mic, we have People In Glass Houses Shouldn't Get Stoned by John Turner, Talcum Powder by Elaine Cusack, Coffee Mood by Shakira Khatun, and Unspoken — a beautiful poem about grandparenting by Mel McEvoy.

Thanks to Steve for sharing the evening with us (and to Sam for the mixes of Steve’s poems), to our brilliant open mic poets, to everyone who turned up to make this a truly memorable evening, and to Pop Recs for giving Sunderland’s many hidden poets somewhere to hang out together every month.

Until next time, toodle-oo!

King Ink's podcast is hosted by Helen Wilko and produced by James Whitman and, on this occasion, Sam May.

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