I try to show what it is about language and music that enthralls, because I think those are the two elements of poetry.

I think that you certainly don't have to be aged and travel the world to write a poem.

If we really want to be full and generous in spirit, we have no choice but to trust at some level.

I always loved science. And in fact, I got a science award in high school. I mean, I loved science, but I think I loved literature more.

To practice your scales, so to speak, in order play the symphony, is what you have to do as a young poet.

Being true to yourself really means being true to all the complexities of the human spirit.

People write me from all over the country, asking me, and sometimes even telling me, what they think a poet laureate should do. I found that immensely valuable.