David Helwig named P.E.I.'s poet laureate

David Helwig, author of more than 20 books of fiction and poetry, was announced Wednesday as P.E.I.'s new poet laureate.

Helwig replaces Frank Ledwell, who held the title for three years.

Helwig will serve a two-year term. He has worked in journalism, TV drama, radio drama and as a university lecturer. Helwig has also been a full-time writer since 1980.

The founder and longtime editor of the annual Best Canadian Stories, and his most recent poetry book, The Year One, won the Atlantic Poetry Award for 2004. 

Helwig's new poetry book, The Sway of Otherwise, will be out in the fall.

The poet laureate doesn't have any fixed duties, but he or she is expected to advocate for literacy and arts awareness.

Helwig said he plans to use the internet to showcase Island writers.