Not only is April host to Earth Day, but it also National Poetry Month here in the US. Those two events intersected yesterday in a program that Academy of American Poets Chancellor Jane Hirshfield developed called “Poets for Science.” Hirshfield is one of the most accomplished contemporary American poets, and environmental awareness has long been … More Poets for Science
On Wednesday, I took my high school literature class on a field trip to a local art museum for a special exhibit. It ended up being one of the best educational tours I’ve ever arranged–and I’ve arranged quite a few. It was thought provoking, engaging, confusing, humorous, and uplifting. Most of all, it reminded me, … More Encouraging Dialogue Through Art
If I had to pick two men who are guaranteed to make me laugh, I would say one is the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism, and another is John Oliver, the host of late night political satire show, Last Week Tonight. So … More Laughing With the Dalai Lama
I teach both middle school and high school group literature classes, and once a month I do a poetry unit with the students. While some of them are into it, others doubt the relevancy of poetry to their lives. I tell them that many times, particularly during events of high emotion or great significance, poets can … More Mending Wall
So if you weren’t invited to an Inaugural ball, why not have a ball instead? Because it look like after VAE is done with its love-in, they are hosting a laugh-in. Atlanta-born 35-year-old Lauren Gunderson is currently the most produced living American playwright. This award-winning author’s works are known for their wit, intelligence, and heart and … More The Power of Comedy
