Writer Robert Pinsky to Present a Free Program for Campus, Community
03/02/2016
Media contacts: Nancy Cicco, 978-934-4944 or Nancy_Cicco@uml.edu and Christine Gillette, 978-934-2209 or Christine_Gillette@uml.edu
* Media Advisory *
Wednesday, March 9, 5:30 p.m.
What: Former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky – who has promoted a love of poetry on “The Colbert Report” and as an animated version of himself on “The Simpsons” – will read his work and discuss his creative process during a free event that will be open to the UMass Lowell community and public.
Appointed by the Library of Congress, Pinsky served as the nation’s official poet for three terms from 1997 to 2000. The distinction brings with it a duty to advance the reading and writing of poetry. His program at UMass Lowell is part of the university’s Writers on Campus series, which is presented by the English Department. After the event, he will sign copies of his books for audience members.
As poet laureate, Pinsky created the Favorite Poem Project, which asked people from across the country to submit their best-loved poem for inclusion in anthologies published by the initiative. The project also gave rise to a collection of videos that depict Americans reading and discussing their favorite poems.
A poet, essayist and translator, Pinsky has said his writing is influenced by his love of jazz music. He is the author of more than 18 books and his latest poetry collection, “At the Foundling Hospital,” will be published later this year. Acclaimed around the world, he is a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the PEN American Center, a membership association of writers and editors. His other honors include the William Carlos Williams Prize, the Italian Premio Capri Award and the Korean Manhae Prize.
Where: O’Leary Library Learning Commons, Room 222, South Campus, 61 Wilder St., Lowell. Contact UMass Lowell media relations for directions and parking information.