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Known as one of Wales’ greatest 20th-century poets, RS Thomas is often characterised as a difficult, even cantankerous figure. 25 years since his death, fellow poet and friend Gwyneth Lewis uncovers a hidden, private side to his life and work - as she explores the tension and tenderness within his marriage to the painter Mildred Elsie Eldridge.

RS Thomas wrote dozens of poems to his first wife, from early reflections on their courtship to moving elegies following her death. Yet his marriage, like much of his life, was complex and unusual – defined as much by silence and distance as by affection.

When they met, Mildred Eldridge was the star - an established and award-winning painter - while RS Thomas was still finding his poetic voice. Gwyneth Lewis follows the journey of their life together and considers why their career trajectories diverged so sharply - his path as a poet ascended to ever greater heights, hers as an artist dwindled.

With access to Mildred Eldridge’s unpublished journals, we hear her voice in the marriage for the first time – a perspective largely absent until now. Gwyneth considers what this remarkable relationship tells us not only about art but, more importantly, about love.

Presenter: Gwyneth Lewis
Producer: Huw Meredydd
Executive Producer: Steven Rajam
Mildred Eldridge's journal is narrated by Sharon Morgan

An Astud production for ÃÛÑ¿´«Ã½ Radio 4

Poems by RS Thomas included in the programme:
A Marriage - Collected Later Poems 1988-2000 (Bloodaxe Books, 2004)
Pilgrimages – Collected Poems 1945-1990 (Orion Books, 1993)
The Way of It – Collected Poems 1945-1990 (Orion Books, 1993)
He and She – Collected Poems 1945-1990 (Orion Books, 1993)
Anniversary - Collected Later Poems 1988-2000 (Bloodaxe Books, 2004)