Welcome to the About Montana LLC website, a nonprofit rural education website. We designed sections for moms, dads, and grandparents and sections for local government and community groups. The section on action research is intended for anyone of any age who is exploring a topic of interest. Every future is different. Every future that is unexplored and unprepared can be disruptive and painful. In the approaching mid-century, the rural communities of Western Montana have the opportunity to explore and understand various living options that previous generations did not need to consider. Suppose we set about to understand our local communities, the influence of climate and global economies on our culture, which connects our generations of family and community. In that case, we may nurture and sustain the lifestyles we depend upon. Communicate Collaborate Create Mission & Ethic Mission and Ethic About Montana LLC's mission and ethic is to improve education and scholarship with respect for cultural sovereignty, individuals, and community. About Montana , LLC participates in developing and maintaining learning environments that foster a sense of well-being, collaboration, and enjoyment. About Montana, LLC resides on the traditional lands of the Salish, Kootenai, and Kalispell Indigenous peoples . Indigenous communities rely on native cultures to understand and maintain generational relationships with the land and neighbours.

Home Welcome, I'm Dr. Charles Bickenheuser, OFS, EdD, the editor of this site and the writer of the Montana Almanac 1 2 1 Order of Secular Franciscans 2 Doctor of Education Sgt. Bickenheuser 5th Special Forces My wife Diane 2011 Last Senior Honors High School Class Daughter Alisa, Diane, and family Daughter Jennifer (PhD candidate), and children One of my graduate students The southern Mission Mountains 30 miles from our home Daughter Jennifer (PhD candidate), and Diane Dr. B. outside of his study An old Special Forces Sergeant Travel, Deployment, Study, Teaching, Writing, Family, Rural Community Contact info@mysite.com 123-456-7890

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Who is writing? The Author: Writes the story The Narrator: Tells the story The Character: Lives the story Here are the main differences between the author, narrator, and characters in a story: Author: Writes the story Narrator: Tells the story Character: Lives the story If an author writes a first-person account of their life and experiences, they would essentially be the narrator. This is often seen in biographies, memoirs, and other personal narratives. Fictional writing rarely sees the author as the narrator. The narrator in fictitious works is almost character-like in that they’re a fictional construct crafted by the writer. The narrator’s sole purpose is to tell the story as it unfolds, viewing events and actions from an outside perspective. The narrator also peers into the minds of characters and “knows” their perceptions, thoughts, and feelings. Citation: Is the Writer the Same Thing as a Narrator ? https://letterreview.com/is-writer-same-as-narrator/

Climate Options The Earth in 300 Years Option One Adapting to Climate Change To envision the Earth in 300 years by adapting to climate change, consider these potential developments: Climate Change Adaptation: Coastal cities can implement advanced flood defenses and sustainable architectural designs. Renewable Energy Dominance: A significant shift to solar, wind, and other renewable sources could power most of the globe. Biodiversity Restoration: Efforts to restore ecosystems and protect endangered species may lead to healthier biodiversity. Urbanization Trends: Smart cities with integrated technology could enhance living conditions and reduce environmental impact. Space Colonization: Human presence on Mars or the Moon might be established, with potential for resource extraction. Technological Integration: AI and automation have the potential to transform industries, with significant implications for employment and daily life. Global Governance: International cooperation may intensify to address global challenges such as pandemics and climate change. Genetic Engineering: Advances in biotechnology could lead to enhanced health and longevity for humans. Water Scarcity Solutions: Innovative desalination and water recycling technologies may alleviate water shortages. Cultural Evolution: Global cultures may blend, resulting in new social norms and values shaped by technology and increased connectivity. ——————————————————— The Earth in 300 Years Option Two No Adoption for Climate Change To envision the impact of climate change on Earth in 300 years, consider these potential developments: Rising Sea Levels: Coastal cities may be submerged due to significant ice melt and thermal expansion of oceans. Extreme Weather Events: Increased frequency and intensity of hurricanes, droughts, and heatwaves could disrupt ecosystems and human life. Biodiversity Loss: Many species may face extinction as their habitats change or disappear, resulting in reduced biodiversity. Agricultural Shifts: Crop yields may decline in some regions while others become more viable, altering global food distribution. Human Displacement: Millions may be forced to migrate due to uninhabitable conditions, leading to climate refugees. Health Risks: Increased heat and pollution could exacerbate health issues, including respiratory diseases and heat-related illnesses. Water Scarcity: Freshwater resources may dwindle, leading to conflicts over access to and management of water. Economic Disruption: Industries that rely on stable climates, such as agriculture and tourism, may face severe financial challenges. Technological Adaptations: Innovations in renewable energy and carbon capture could emerge as critical solutions to mitigate impacts. Global Cooperation: Nations may need to collaborate more closely to address climate challenges and implement sustainable practices. ———————————————————

Montana Code Annotated 2023 TITLE 76. LAND RESOURCES AND USE CHAPTER 1. PLANNING BOARDS Part 6. Growth Policy Growth Policy -- Contents 76-1-601. Growth policy -- contents. (1) A growth policy may cover all or part of the jurisdictional area. (2) The extent to which a growth policy addresses the elements listed in subsection (3) is at the full discretion of the governing body. (3) A growth policy must include: (a) community goals and objectives; (b) maps and text describing an inventory of the existing characteristics and features of the jurisdictional area, including: (i) land uses; (ii) population; (iii) housing needs; (iv) economic conditions; (v) local services; (vi) public facilities; (vii) natural resources; (viii) sand and gravel resources; and (ix) other characteristics and features proposed by the planning board and adopted by the governing bodies; (c) projected trends for the life of the growth policy for each of the following elements: (i) land use; (ii) population; (iii) housing needs; (iv) economic conditions; (v) local services; (vi) natural resources; and (vii) other elements proposed by the planning board and adopted by the governing bodies; (d) a description of policies, regulations, and other measures to be implemented in order to achieve the goals and objectives established pursuant to subsection (3)(a); (e) a strategy for development, maintenance, and replacement of public infrastructure, including drinking water systems, wastewater treatment facilities, sewer systems, solid waste facilities, fire protection facilities, roads, and bridges; (f) an implementation strategy that includes: (i) a timetable for implementing the growth policy; (ii) a list of conditions that will lead to a revision of the growth policy; and (iii) a timetable for reviewing the growth policy at least once every 5 years and revising the policy if necessary; (g) a statement of how the governing bodies will coordinate and cooperate with other jurisdictions that explains: (i) if a governing body is a city or town, how the governing body will coordinate and cooperate with the county in which the city or town is located on matters related to the growth policy; (ii) if a governing body is a county, how the governing body will coordinate and cooperate with cities and towns located within the county's boundaries on matters related to the growth policy; (h) a statement explaining how the governing bodies will: (i) define the criteria in 76-3-608 (3)(a); and (ii) evaluate and make decisions regarding proposed subdivisions with respect to the criteria in 76-3-608 (3)(a); (i) a statement explaining how public hearings regarding proposed subdivisions will be conducted; and (j) an evaluation of the potential for fire and wildland fire in the jurisdictional area, including whether or not there is a need to: (i) delineate the wildland-urban interface; and (ii) adopt regulations requiring: (A) defensible space around structures; (B) adequate ingress and egress to and from structures and developments to facilitate fire suppression activities; and (C) adequate water supply for fire protection. (4) A growth policy may: (a) include one or more neighborhood plans. A neighborhood plan must be consistent with the growth policy. (b) establish minimum criteria defining the jurisdictional area for a neighborhood plan; (c) establish an infrastructure plan that, at a minimum, includes: (i) projections, in maps and text, of the jurisdiction's growth in population and number of residential, commercial, and industrial units over the next 20 years; (ii) for a city, a determination regarding if and how much of the city's growth is likely to take place outside of the city's existing jurisdictional area over the next 20 years and a plan of how the city will coordinate infrastructure planning with the county or counties where growth is likely to take place; (iii) for a county, a plan of how the county will coordinate infrastructure planning with each of the cities that project growth outside of city boundaries and into the county's jurisdictional area over the next 20 years; (iv) for cities, a land use map showing where projected growth will be guided and at what densities within city boundaries; (v) for cities and counties, a land use map that designates infrastructure planning areas adjacent to cities showing where projected growth will be guided and at what densities; (vi) using maps and text, a description of existing and future public facilities necessary to efficiently serve projected development and densities within infrastructure planning areas, including, whenever feasible, extending interconnected municipal street networks, sidewalks, trail systems, public transit facilities, and other municipal public facilities throughout the infrastructure planning area. For the purposes of this subsection (4)(c)(vi), public facilities include but are not limited to drinking water treatment and distribution facilities, sewer systems, wastewater treatment facilities, solid waste disposal facilities, parks and open space, schools, public access areas, roads, highways, bridges, and facilities for fire protection, law enforcement, and emergency services; (vii) a description of proposed land use management techniques and incentives that will be adopted to promote development within cities and in an infrastructure planning area, including land use management techniques and incentives that address issues of housing affordability; (viii) a description of how and where projected development inside municipal boundaries for cities and inside designated joint infrastructure planning areas for cities and counties could adversely impact: (A) threatened or endangered wildlife and critical wildlife habitat and corridors; (B) water available to agricultural water users and facilities; (C) the ability of public facilities, including schools, to safely and efficiently service current residents and future growth; (D) a local government's ability to provide adequate local services, including but not limited to emergency, fire, and police protection; (E) the safety of people and property due to threats to public health and safety, including but not limited to wildfire, flooding, erosion, water pollution, hazardous wildlife interactions, and traffic hazards; (F) natural resources, including but not limited to forest lands, mineral resources, sand and gravel resources, streams, rivers, lakes, wetlands, and ground water; and (G) agricultural lands and agricultural production; and (ix) a description of measures, including land use management techniques and incentives, that will be adopted to avoid, significantly reduce, or mitigate the adverse impacts identified under subsection (4)(c)(viii). (d) include any elements required by a federal land management agency in order for the governing body to establish coordination or cooperating agency status as provided in 76-1-607 . (5) The planning board may propose and the governing bodies may adopt additional elements of a growth policy in order to fulfill the purpose of this chapter. End of this MCA section

Seven Notable Montana Authors by Elizabeth Hawley Updated by the author on January 11, 2024 Edited by C. Bickenheuser 1. Ivan Doig Ivan Doig, a third-generation Montanan, was born in White Sulphur Springs, Montana, on June 27, 1939. He led a diverse professional life as a ranch hand, newspaperman, and magazine editor. Growing up along the Rocky Mountain Front provided the backdrop for much of his writing. Doig lived in Seattle with his wife, Carol Muller, a literature of the American West professor whom he met at the Medill School of Journalism. They married on April 17, 1965, and had no children. Doig earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in journalism from Northwestern University and a Ph.D. in history from the University of Washington in 1969. Throughout his career, he received three honorary doctorates. As an American author, Doig’s writing topics often delve into adventure, the intricacies of rural life, and the natural beauty of Montana’s wilderness. Famous Works by Ivan Doig: English Creek (1984) Dancing at the Rascal Fair (1987) Ride with Me, Mariah Montana (1990) The Bartender’s Tale (2012) Last Bus to Wisdom (2015) This House of Sky: Landscapes of a Western Mind (1978) Heart Earth: A Memoir (1993) Winter Brothers: A Season at the Edge of America (1980) 2. James Welch James Welch, born on November 18, 1940, in Browning, Montana, had a diverse and captivating background. Welch’s father hailed from the Blackfeet tribe, while his mother belonged to the Gros Ventre (A’aninin) tribe. Growing up on an Indian reservation, he confronted the challenges faced by people largely excluded from the American dream. Determined to become a writer, he sought to amplify their voices and shed light on their struggles. While acclaimed for his novels, Welch also dazzled with his poetry, fiction, essays, and writings about food, earning him the title “founding author of the Native American Renaissance.” Before delving into English Literature at the University of Montana, Welch explored different vocations – firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service, laborer, and Upward Bound counselor. Yet, Welch’s unwavering passion remained storytelling through the written word. Beyond his literary conquests, Welch served as the Vice Chairman of the Montana Board of Pardons and Parole for a decade. His contributions to literature and society have been recognized with honorary doctorates from the University of Montana, Montana State University, and Rocky Mountain College in Billings. Welch has left an indelible mark on American literature as an Indigenous author and prolific writer. He wrote Killing Custer: The Battle of Little Bighorn and the Fate of the Plains Indians (1994), providing profound insights into Native American history. James Welch’s mastery as an American author is a testament to his ability to captivate and enlighten readers with his poetic prose and engaging storytelling. Famous Works by James Welch: Winter in the Blood (1974) Fools Crow (1986) The Death of Jim Loney (1979) The Heartsong of Charging Elk (2000) Killing Custer: The Battle of Little Bighorn and the Fate of the Plains Indians (1994) 3. William Kittredge William Kittredge, born on August 14, 1932, in Portland, Oregon, left an indelible mark on the literary world until his passing on December 4, 2020, in Missoula. He is a renowned American author known for his poetry, fiction, and essays, and was a master of capturing the essence of the natural world in his writings. Hailing from the great state of Oregon, USA, Kittredge spent most of his life in the picturesque town of Missoula, Montana. His early experiences shaped his captivating fiction and nonfiction, drawing inspiration from his childhood and young adulthood. After obtaining a degree in general agriculture from Oregon State University in 1953, Kittredge studied under the Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Bernard Malamud. Throughout his life, Kittredge chronicled his adventures and insights, writing widely on natural history, the environment, and animal welfare issues. With degrees from Harvard, Oxford, and Princeton universities, Kittredge established himself as a respected nonfiction writer, captivating readers with his deep understanding of the natural world. Over the past thirty years, Kittredge has lived in Missoula, Montana, embracing a life of writing, public readings, and exploration. With his powerful prose and unique perspective, William Kittredge’s adult books continue to inspire readers to appreciate the wonders of the world around us. Famous Works by William Kittredge: Owning It All (1987) Hole in the Sky: A Memoir (1992) The Nature of Generosity (2000) The Best American Essays (2005) The Next Rodeo: New and Selected Essays (2017) 4. Judy Blunt As a Montana writer, Judy Blunt brings a unique perspective to her exceptional storytelling skills. Spending over 30 years on wheat and cattle ranches in northeastern Montana, Blunt gained firsthand experience of the rugged and demanding ranch life that shapes her narratives. Seeking liberation, she decided to attend the University of Montana, where her talent for storytelling blossomed. Blunt’s book of poems, Not Quite Stone, won the prestigious Merriam-Frontier Award in 1991. It captures Montana’s landscape and people in poignant verse. Her memoir, Breaking Clean, showcases her upbringing on a Montana ranch. At 15, she entered into an arranged marriage with an older cowboy named John. Breaking Clean delves into Blunt's challenges as she endured 12 years of marriage, raising children, and living within the confines of her rural Montana heritage. But it also explores her journey to self-discovery and liberation. Breaking free from the traditions of her upbringing, Blunt courageously divorces her husband and embarks on a new life in Missoula, where she pursues education and becomes a writer. Through her storytelling, Judy Blunt continues to leave a lasting impact on Montana literature. She shares the untold stories of those who brave the trials of rural life and find their voice amidst the vastness of Big Sky Country. Famous Works by Judy Blunt: Not Quite Stone (1991) Breaking Clean (2002) Traditions (2010) – Co-authored with Carol S. Leonard and Sharyn J. McCrumb Cowboy Stories (2011) The Land (2015) Winter Wheat (2019) 5. Pete Fromm Pete Fromm is a celebrated author from Montana's rugged landscapes. Born September 29, 1958, this seasoned wordsmith and adventure writer has created literary masterpieces for over 25 years. From Montana to Michigan to the battlefields of Vietnam, where he served as a soldier during the war, Fromm’s experiences have lent a rich tapestry to his storytelling. He graces the stages of writer’s conferences across the United States and Europe, captivating audiences with his raw talent and captivating narratives. His name shines brightly in the literary sky, having garnered recognition with several prestigious accolades. Fromm has collected the Pacific Northwest Booksellers Literary Award five times, an extraordinary feat that speaks volumes about his storytelling prowess. This Montana wordsmith’s brilliance extends beyond novels and includes mesmerizing memoirs. Indian Creek Chronicles have left an indelible mark on readers’ hearts. Fromm’s novel The Names of the Stars claimed the illustrious Evans Handcart Award for excellence in biography and the esteemed Montana Book Award. Pete Fromm’s enchanting novel, As Cool As I Am, transcended the pages and made its way onto the big screen with a captivating film adaptation. The movie, starring the incredibly talented Claire Danes, James Marsden, and Sarah Bolger, brought Fromm’s unforgettable story to life. The magic of Pete Fromm is not limited to novels and films alone. Delve into his collection of short stories, where you’ll find a treasure trove of captivating tales. He has mastered weaving wonder into concise narratives; over 200 stories have been published in various magazines. Step into the realm of Pete Fromm, a master storyteller, and allow yourself to be whisked away on a journey of wonder, inspiration, and the joy of a well-told tale. Famous Works by Pete Fromm: A Job You Mostly Won’t Know How To Do (2019) If Not For This (2014) As Cool As I Am (2003) How All This Started (2000) Monkey Tag (1994) 6. Richard Hugo Richard Hugo is an American novelist, literary critic, and essayist; Hugo’s incomparable talent has left an indelible mark on the literary world. Hailing from the humble town of White Center, Washington, Hugo’s works spanned various genres, including poetry, fiction, and even writing about food. His ability to capture the essence of human emotion and experience in his writings is genuinely awe-inspiring. Born on December 21, 1923, Richard Franklin Hogan was raised by his grandparents, Fred and Ora Monk, after his mother entrusted him to their care in 1942. Hugo embraced his mother’s second husband’s last name, Herbert Hugo, and became Richard Hugo. His life took an extraordinary turn in 1943 when he volunteered for the Army Air Corps and was a bombardier in the Mediterranean Theatre. Hugo’s bravery and dedication earned him the rank of First Lieutenant and prestigious honors like the Distinguished Flying Cross. Completing 35 missions, he displayed the courage and resilience that would later permeate his literary works. Books, baseball, and fishing were three passions that accompanied Richard Hugo throughout his journey. After being discharged from the military in 1948, he attended the University of Washington on the G.I. Bill and a baseball scholarship. While pursuing an English major, he participated in Theodore Roethke’s workshops, adding depth and insight to his literary prowess. With a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, Hugo married Barbara Williams and earned his Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in 1952. His dedication to the craft and unwavering commitment to his literary voice laid the foundation for his enduring legacy. Richard Hugo’s impact extends beyond his written works. The Richard Hugo House in Seattle is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring poets in the region. It offers workshops and writing education to foster a vibrant learning community. Additionally, his papers are housed at the University of Washington, ensuring that his profound influence on the literary landscape is preserved for generations to come. Solace is found in his final resting place. Beneath the roots of an ancient tree in Missoula, visitors to his grave are met with words from his poem “Glen Uig” etched on the headstone. These words remind us of the power of our voices and the resilience to endure even the most challenging circumstances. Richard Hugo’s body of work continues to inspire and captivate readers. With each page, he invites us to explore the depths of our humanity and embrace the power of storytelling. In a world that can sometimes feel chaotic and uncertain, Hugo’s books serve as beacons of hope, offering solace to all who dare to embark on the literary adventure he has left behind. Famous Works by Richard Hugo: The Triggering Town: Lectures and Essays on Poetry and Writing (1978) Making Certain It Goes On: The Collected Poems of Richard Hugo (1981) The Lady in Kicking Horse Reservoir (Carnegie Mellon Classic Contemporary Series: Poetry) (1973) Selected Poems (1979) Death and the Good Life (1981) 7. Mary Clearman Blew As a Montana author, Mary Clearman Blew has left an indelible mark on the literary landscape. Growing up in Montana’s eastern center, far from the bustle of town, Blew’s connection to the land and its people runs deep. With almost 50 years of teaching and working in Montana’s schools and colleges, Blew’s persistence and competence have been key to her life in teaching and writing. Blew urges her students to delve into the history and significance of places with personal meaning. Blew believes that by incorporating personal and trivial details, writers can create a rich tapestry of storytelling that resonates with readers. Blew’s impressive work includes criticism, novels, memoirs, and essay collections. Her writing explores family, wonderful stories, and the delicate balance between personal narratives and a writer’s privilege to tell them. Blew’s contributions to the literary world have not gone unnoticed. Her work has garnered praise and recognition, solidifying her position as a prominent Montana author. With her intimate connection to the state and her vast body of notable works, Mary Clearman Blew continues to inspire and captivate readers with her evocative storytelling. Famous Works by Mary Clearman Blew: Women’s Diaries of the Westward Journey (1982) Touchstone Anthology of Contemporary Creative Nonfiction: Work from 1970 to the Present (2007) Chip of the Flying U (1996) The Curlew’s Cry (1994) Final Thoughts A tapestry of literary talent unfolds in Montana's vast and awe-inspiring landscapes. These remarkable authors' stories vividly depict adventure, resilience, and the human spirit’s indomitable nature. Each author’s unique voice and perspective breathe life into their stories. Ivan Doig captures rural life and the allure of Montana’s wilderness. James Welch amplifies the voices of indigenous people, shedding light on their struggles. William Kittredge immerses readers in the wonders of Montana’s landscapes. Judy Blunt fearlessly shares untold stories and challenging traditions. Pete Fromm’s mastery whisks us away on journeys of wonder. Richard Hugo’s poetic prose delves into human emotion. Mary Clearman Blew weaves a rich tapestry of storytelling. Through their words, we are transported to the untamed wilderness, the hidden corners of history, and the hearts and minds of those who call Montana home. On this literary journey through Montana, we are reminded of storytelling's power to transport, inspire, and connect. These authors have left an indelible mark on the literary world, spotlighting Montana's hidden stories and capturing the essence of its people, landscapes, and history. Montana authors will surely captivate readers and invite them to embark on their adventures within the pages of their books. Whether wandering the streets of Helena or gazing at the mountains of Glacier National Park, take a moment to delve into Montana's literary world. Let these authors be your guides. They will transport you to the heart of this breathtaking state and give you a deeper understanding of its rich tapestry of stories. As you turn the pages, may their words ignite your imagination and kindle a love for the written word, reminding you of the power of literature to connect you to the world around you. Home

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The 11 Most Famous American Authors of All Timeby by Eddison Monroe Eleven Best American Authors Table of Contents 1. The Pioneers of American Literature 1.1. Washington Irving 1.2. James Fenimore Cooper 1.3. Edgar Allan Poe 2. The Great American Novelists 2.1. Mark Twain 2.2. F. Scott Fitzgerald 2.3. Ernest Hemingway 3. The Voices of Social Change 3.1. Harriet Beecher Stowe 3.2. Langston Hughes 3.3. Toni Morrison 4. The Modern Literary Icons 4.1. J.D. Salinger 4.2. Sylvia Plath 4.3. Maya Angelou

Books for kids, parents, grandparents, neighbors, and grumpy people... “On days when I’ve felt as though I have nothing left to give to my kids, I’ve been able to sit next to them and open a book. We start reading, and the world looks different.” —Maria Russo Kids Reading for Our Lives Packed with research insights and practical tools, Reading for Our Lives will show you how to nurture literacy from day one and tilt your child’s learning trajectory sky high. Amazon Barnes and Noble Kindle It is not true that we have only one life to live; if we can read, we can live as many more lives and as many kinds of lives as we wish. S.I. Hayakawa From the website GoodReads Hundreds of Children's Books (Here are the first ten books...) W here the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White The Cat in the Hat (The Cat in the Hat, #1) by Dr. Seu ss Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Joffe Numeroff Lo ve You Forever by Robert Munsch Parents & Grandparents

10 of the Most Important Poets of the 21st Century Although many think back to the poets of the Romantic or Modern movements when they consider great poetic works, the writers of today have as much (if not more!) to say about the frustrating and beautiful complexities of the human experience. But, what would the answer be if you were asked who the most important poets of the 21st century are? Now that is a hard question! It would certainly depend on who you asked, but here is a list of some of the wonderful poets who have contributed some incredible verse in the last twenty years. Influential 21st Century Poets Seamus Heaney Fleur Adcock Wendell Berry Joyce Carol Oates Margaret Atwood Vikram Seth Sherman Alexie Carol Ann Duffy Billy Collins Derek Walcott Comments 1. Seamus Heaney Let’s start with one of the best-loved poets of any era, Seamus Heaney. Seamus Heaney was born in April 1939 in Castledawson, Northern Ireland. If you know anything about Heaney, he likely wrote extensively about his Irish heritage and the historical and contemporary plight of the Irish people. His first collection, which many consider being his finest, Death of a Naturalist, was published in 1965 while Heaney was working as a lecturer at Queen’s University. It contains some of the best examples of his work such as the title poem, ‘Death of Naturalist ,’ ‘Digging ’ and ‘Mid-term Break ’. Seamus Heaney received the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1995. Upon his death in 2013, there was a public expression of grief over the loss of such an important literary figure. During his lifetime, he was considered by some to be the most famous poet in the world. Explore Seamus Heaney’s poems. 2. Fleur Adcock Fleur Adcock was born in Papakura, New Zealand in February 1934. Her verse speaks on topics such as place, identity, and the everyday, sometimes using dark imagery to change one’s perspective on seemingly normal situations. She has written 10 collections of poetry. Her most recent collections are The Land Ballot published in 2014 and Hoard published in 2017. She has been awarded the New Zealand National Book Award, Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, and Order of the British Empire (OBE). Read more poetry from Fleur Adcock . 3. Wendell Berry Wendell Berry was born in Henry County, Kentucky in August 1934. He is a poet, environmentalist, and farmer. While writing he tends to favor pastoral themes and elegiac forms. He is also known for his historical narratives such as ‘Bringer of Water’. His first full book of poetry was published in 1964 and was titled The Broke Ground. Within this work, he set the scene for a lifetime of poetry concerned with place, life, and death. His works have had a huge impact on the literary world, he was awarded the Ivan Sandrof Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Books Critics Circle in 2016. 4. Joyce Carol Oates Oates was born in Lockport, New York in 1938 and has since published 58 novels as well as novellas , short stories , nonfiction works, and volumes of poetry. She has won the National Book Award, the National Humanities Medal as well as two O. Henry Awards. Plus, five of her novels were finalists for the Pulitzer Prize. Her works are noted for their depictions of violence in contemporary society. Today, her novels, Garden of Earthly Delights, and Do with Me What You Will are considered to be some of her most important. Some of her poetry collections include Love and Its Derangements: Poems (1970), The Fabulous Beasts: Poems (1975), and Tenderness (1996). 5. Margaret Atwood Margaret Atwood was born in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, in 1939. Over her lifetime she has written eighteen books of poetry, eighteen novels as well as works for children and graphic novels. She has also received more than fifty-five awards. These include the Man Booker Prize for her novels The Blind Assassin and The Testaments, the Arthur C. Clark Award, and the PEN Center USA Lifetime Achievement award. Her most well-known book is The Handmaid’s Tale which has recently enjoyed a resurgence in popularity. It is considered one of the world’s best examples of dystopian fiction ever written. Her first collection of poetry Double Persephone was published in 1961. Others include The Circle Game, Power Politics, In Procedures for Underground, and Morning in the Burned House. Some of her most popular poems include ‘Procedures for Underground’ and ‘Siren Song ’. She is considered to be one of Canada’s best-living writers. Discover poems by Margaret Atwood. 6. Vikram Seth Vikram Seth was born in Kolkata, West Bengal, India in June 1952. He is the author of novels and books of verse and has received many awards. Seth often writes about travel, love, loss, and Indian history. His eight books of poetry include Mappings, The Humble Administrator’s Garden, and Three Chinese Poets. Two of his most popular poems include The Tale of Melon City and The Frog and the Nightingale . Explore Vikram Seth’s poetry. 7. Sherman Alexie Alexie was born in October 1966 in Wellpinit, Washington. While best-known for his books, such as the short story collection The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight in Heaven, he is also a prolific poet. In the early years of his career, Alexie received the Washington State Arts Commission Poetry Fellowship as well as the National Endowment for the Arts Poetry Fellowship. His first two collections were published in 1992. The poems in these collections, and much of Alexie’s work, are concerned with the struggles of Native Americans. He speaks on themes of poverty and racism. War Dances, Alexie’s collection of short stories, and poems won the 2010 PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction. His volumes of verse include One Stick Song, The Man Who Loves Salmon, First Indian on the Moon, and The Business of Fancydancing. Read Sherman Alexie's poems. 8. Carol Ann Duffy Carol Ann Duffy, who was born in Scotland in December of 1955, has become one of the best-loved poets alive today. Her poetry is concerned with themes of love—familial and romantic. These poems are generally written in the form of a monologue and deal with situations and people that poetry does not normally touch on. Her writing can be both playful and serious as she explores topics such as queer identity, the power of language, and feminism. She is admired for the way she plays with words and enhances or alters their meanings. Some of Duffy’s best-known poetry collections are Standing Female Nude (1985), The World’s Wife (1999), and Rapture (2005). More recently, she has taken to writing verse for children as well as adults. Collections published in the 2010s include Love Poems in 2010 and Sincerity in 2018. In 2009 she was named Britain’s first female Poet Laureate. She famously only agreed to take on the role because no other woman had previously held it before her. A few of her best-known poems are ‘Havisham ’ and ‘In Your Mind ’. Read Carol Ann Duffy's poems . 9. Billy Collins Collins has been referred to by many as one of, if not the, most popular poets in America. It was in 1991 with the publication of Questions about Angels that Collin's star began to rise. His works are considered at once relatable and thought-proving and he is known to use wit to speak on deeper, more profound topics. He has served two terms as the US poet laureate. Some of his books of verse include The Trouble with Poetry, Aimless Love, and the Rain in Portugal. Explore poetry from Billy Collins . 10. Derek Walcott Walcott was born in January 1930 in Castries, Saint Lucia. His first poem appeared in a newspaper when he was only fourteen. His first collection was published five years later, titled 25 Poems. Walcott’s career was solidified with the publication of In a Green Night: Poems 1948-1960 in 1962. Throughout his life, he won the Novel Prize, a MacArthur Foundation genius award, the Queen’s Medal for Poetry, and the 2011 T.S. Eliot Prize for White Egrets. In February 2016, he became a Knight of the Order of Saint Lucia. His work is generally associated with themes of spirituality, colonialism, and Caribbean history. The work most cited by literary scholars is Omeros, and Homeric epic published in 1990. Read the poetry from Derek Walcott .