The poem by Carol Ann Duffy was inspired by the mythological story of King Midas from Metamorphoses. King Midas was granted a wish that everything he touched would turn to gold however he soon realised the the drawbacks to his wish and so asked for it to be taken away. Mrs Midas, written in first person describes the relationship with her husband before, during and after the wish was granted. The poem explores the themes of relationships, love and greed.

Click here for a copy of the poem.