City poet of Vlaardingen

Sander succeeds Jordy Dijkshoorn and was chosen from seven entries. The appointment was made by alderman Lianne van Kalken in the Grote Kerk. The jury praised his mature style, calm rhythm and creative daring. Alongside him, junior city poet Sonya Wartanjan writes about what is happening in the city.

He has written poetry for more than thirty years and names former city poet Kees Alderliesten — often called the godfather of Vlaardingen poetry — as a key influence, alongside Rimbaud and Shakespeare. As city poet he writes on request from the municipality and local organisations, and performs at the moments that matter to the city.

His ambition for these two years is simple and large at once: a booklet full of good moments by the end, and as many real conversations as possible along the way — because a poet gets direct access to people.

A city poet is a promoter of poetry and of the city.

Sander Groen, speaking to Twee (ditistwee.nl)