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

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

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

In the future, all cities will be distinguished by one thing only. The nature of their enthusiasm.

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

The true measure of a city is its soul. This is the restless energy that doesn't wait for political leadership.

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.