A tiny state which lies largely within the metropolitan area of New York and Philadelphia, New Jersey is one of the most densely populated of the United States. The state has often been chided for its industrial terrain and the irony of such a built up state being nicknamed ‘The Garden State’. However several literary and musical icons made their home there and commented on the particular character and appeal of this small but proud state.

William Carlos Williams is an American literary icon who is renowned throughout the world for his sparse but profound works. He was born and raised in New Jersey and included something of the state character in his works. He was closely associated with the Imagism and Modernism movements and was friends with some of the most prominent avant-garde figures of the early 20th century.

Bruce Springsteen is probably Jersey’s most famous son and his music consistently harks back to his childhood in the streets and shores of Jersey. Frank Sinatra and Bon Jovi also heralded from New Jersey.

The state has also produced a range of compelling cinema; The Garden State documents a man’s return home to his home town in Jersey and Atlantic City depicts the underbelly of life in the gambling centre of New Jersey.