A chef from Macclesfield has swapped the pan for the pen, as he has released his first ever poetry book.
Reared in Upton Priory, and now a resident of Hurdsfield, Kenny Wilson is the man behind The Devil Wears a Kitchen Apron.
Kenny currently works at Macclesfield venues Heaton House Farm and The Knott pub in Ruston Spencer.
His first poetry book contains 35 poems, based on the experiences of Kenny’s 45 years cooking in restaurants.
The book costs £7.99, and can be purchased by clicking the link at the bottom of this article. (Image – Macclesfield Nub News)
“It wasn’t in my five year plan to release a poetry book”, quipped Kenny.
“But to be honest, I am very humble, I had some amazing feedback about it and the reviews have brought a lump to my throat,” he confessed.
The new poetry book raises issues on mental health, domestic violence and substance abuse.
There is even a moving poem presented like a recipe.
A young Kenny, and Kenny today, side by side. (Image – Macclesfield Nub News / Kenny Wilson)
“It is great therapy writing poetry, and especially in the trade we are in which deals with a lot of emotions, and they will read that in my book,” added Kenny.
“There are lots of issues in the book, and to be able to write them on a piece of paper, it is cheaper than going to a therapist.
“It has been an amazing journey doing it, to put your feelings down on paper is something I thought I could never do. But it seems to have come across really well.”
The book has been a real community effort, with Maxonians helping to proofread, design the cover and distribute the release.
“I think people in the trade will read it and realise that they are not alone”, said Kenny.
“Everybody suffers with mental health and some point in kitchens. I have suffered from panic attacks when I had my own pub.
“You are trying to deal with bins, food going out, people being late. But people will read it and be able to relate to it.
“A chef I know text me and say ‘Oh my god, it’s like my life in words, that you have wrote down.’
(Image – Macclesfield Nub News)
“I have included a mention in the book to the Burnt Chef Project, which specifically helps with mental health in the hospitality trade. There are people out there to help you.”
Kenny cites long hours and the relationship issues that stem from that as a reason why being a chef is so stressful. (But it is still a job he has great affection for.)
His book has even convinced those who aren’t chefs, or do not like poetry, to enjoy the book.
Kenny’s style is street poetry, delivered in language that we can all understand, with no hidden meanings.
“So when I talk about ‘my hands covered in cuts and burns’, it is exactly what it says on the tin. It is talking about a red hot kitchen, and having to carry on with your job. We don’t have time to get first aid or run it under cold water, you just crack on.”
Kenny honed his cooking skills at The Bridge in Prestbury, before embarking on a 25-year sojourn in Glasgow. Today, he is back in Macc, and locals have loved his new endeavour.
He would like places in Macclesfield to stock the book, and would want to work with Bollington Printshop for a second run.
In the meantime, Kenny is continuing to raise awareness and perform his poetry on his Instagram @kennythechef___thesocialpoet.
Kenny has a few more poems in his back pocket, so alongside performing this book’s poem in Macclesfield, his literary future looks bright.
“Thank you for reading my book,” he concluded.
“I hope this gives you insight into the life behind the stoves and the people that work so hard to make your meals enjoyable.
“Remember these people are human: they also have issues just like you and are trying their hardest to serve you and do a job that can be demanding.
“These people are passionate about their jobs so please be kind!”
Kenny’s book can be bought on Amazon via this link.
