Libraries are where it all begins.

My favorite poets may not be your bread and butter. I have more favorite poems than favorite poets.

I believe people may have a predisposition for artistic creativity. It doesn't mean they're going to make it.

It makes me furious to hear haters of all skin colors - especially Christian, Jewish, and Muslim fundamentalists - deride other people because of their different beliefs and lifestyles.

When we are touched by something it's as if we're being brushed by an angel's wings.

I've always felt that the poems I've written which have historical context are hopefully not just simply plucking something out of history and saying great, let's write about that. In every case what has happened is that I've become fascinated or haunted by something and couldn't shake it.

There are distinct duties of a poet laureate. I plan a reading series at the Library of Congress and advise the librarian. The rest is how I want to promote poetry