True creative cities produce the legacy of an idea that does what funding cannot do: to foster.

A city without passion is just a city of artistic events.

A city's art must give the impression that art is as indispensable a thing as water, or food.

When civic leaders are in love with their cities they are listened to; they are credible.

A strategist is one who helps people relax into their creative skills. People won't rally unless an idea is beautiful... Everyone is hanging on every word... Amazing.

A city's greatness is manifest in a people confident in their ability to take risks, to encounter

I am honoured to have the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of my esteemed colleague and fellow poet Mr. Dennis Lee, it will be with pride and passion that I carry forward the mandate of the Poet Laureate position for the City of Toronto and its residents.