Tom Pickard grew up in the working-class suburbs of Cowgate, Newcastle upon Tyne, and Blakelaw, and left school at the age of fourteen. As a poet, Pickard is known for his range, from erotic to political, from lyrically delicate to poignantly sad to bluntly expletive­-driven. As well as poetry Pickard has compiled books of oral history and has directed and produced a number of documentary films.

Tom Pickard's work featured in PN Review comprises two contributions of poetry, over a period of three years. Also available is one review of Tom Pickard's work.