How many of these poets do you know? Does the person next to you know? You may find your answer there.

Absolutely. If only more human beings were able to honor this fact–MUCH sooner than the last 50 years of a what may be the oldest genre of writing, the need for a substantial period to revise and ultimately dismiss such an entrenched legacy of exclusion wouldn’t be necessary.

Why, in 2009, is a tribute to “African-American” poets necessary? I am a subscriber, and I read the two essays. Prof. Jones’s essay gives many examples of “black poetry”, but, understandibly, she avoids a real definition. To me, her point is that “black poetry” (whatever that may be) should be permitted to flourish. But I am sure that she would agree that the same argument should apply to all kinds of poetry. Interestingly, she seems to have mixed feelings about an issue devoted to black poetry – - perhaps remembering when poetry by black authors was segregated from other works.

Prof. Somers-Willett’s essay seems to be designed to put “white” readers in an uncomfortable position. (The KKK metaphor was a little over the top, in my opinion. She seems to be saying that white readers need to be aware – - overcome? – - their own whiteness.) If her main point is that people of different races have different experiences/etc and that we should all appreciate those differences, then I guess I would be hard-pressed to disagree. However, I am not sure why there is such a focus on racial identity. Of course, everyone – - for many, many reasons – - has different experiences & viewpoints, and those differences can be enjoyed in their poetry. But, again, I ask, why the need for a tribute to poets of a particular racial identity? Isn’t life – - and poetry – - more profound than that?

Thank you.