New US Poet Laureate

The Library of Congress has named the new Poet Laureate of the United States, Kay Ryan.

Librarian of Congress, Dr. James H. Billington, says,

"Kay Ryan is a distinctive and original voice

within the rich variety of contemporary American

poetry. She writes easily understandable short

poems on improbable subjects. Within her compact

compositions there are many surprises in rhyme and

rhythm and in sly wit pointing to subtle wisdom."

Her appointment to the position has garnered, if not controversy, then at least curiosity. Poetasters and critics alike acknowledge that while Ryan's poetry has similarities to that of Emily Dickinson or Marianne Moore, she does not write in what is considered the current style of poetry.

At present, SFPL has one Kay Ryan book, Elephant Rocks. We have several more on order that you can start placing holds on. In the meantime, that catch-all Wikipedia has a great selection of her works and criticism available online.