Charles Simic Named U.S. Poet Laureate

[photo by Alexandra Daley-Clark, New York Times]
The New York Times announced today that New Hampshire poet/professor Charles Simic has been named the next Poet Laureate of the United States. And what a great choice! This great poet is also a gifted teacher and committed editor, and will enrich many with exposure to his brilliance, wicked humor, and intensely distilled insights. Age 69, he lives in Strafford, New Hampshire; born in the former Yugoslavia, he adopted the United States long ago, and it's grand to see the nation return the favor to him. His next book is due in early 2008 -- maybe the announcement will hurry the publisher, so we can dip into the new collection sooner. Hurrah!