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Poetry

Poetry has and continues to be at the center of the most political questions. Explore L.A.'s thriving poetry scene and discover how artists use their poetic verse to speak up and speak out.

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A group of over 60 poets line up in three rows for a group photograph in a high ceiling public library. The floor beneath them is granite tiling arranged in geometric shapes. Above, is a mural.
'A Day of Poetry in LA' Celebrates the Diversity and Strength of L.A.'s Poetry Community
There's an incredible geographic, cultural and even philosophical diversity in the Los Angeles poetry community. Over 60 poets gathered at "A Day of Poetry in LA" to honor and celebrates these differences.
A black and white photo of Michelle Mush Lee in the background, out of focus. Her hand, balled up in a fist, is in focus and in the foreground.
Poem: When We Dream a New America
Since the Chinese Exclusion Act made Chinese laborers "America's first undocumented," Asian Americans have helped to dream a new America. Watch Michelle Mush Lee's poetic recollection of solidarity throughout history.
Stephanie Sajor and Eddy M. Gana Jr. stand side by side on a stage in front of two microphones. A bright spotlight shines on both of them as they are spoken word poetry mid-performance. Their hands are held out in front of them with their palms upward and their faces are scrunched up with emotion.
At Sunday Jump in Historic Filipinotown, Words Gain Power
Now on its 10th year, Sunday Jump in Historic Filipinotown has facilitated a safe space for marginalized voices to express themselves, share stories and create genuine connections to the arts.
National youth poet laureate Amanda Gorman arrives at the inauguration of US President-elect Joe Biden on the West Front of the US Capitol on January 20, 2021 in Washington, DC.
Poetry is Political: Amanda Gorman's America
“I am the daughter of Black writers who are descended from freedom fighters, who broke their chains and changed the world. They call me,” so goes the mantra of Amanda Gorman. Learn more about the nation's youngest inauguration poet and her politics.
A man reads in a library to a group of people. | iStock
The Power of Poetry in Florence
Investing in arts and culture is increasingly being recognized as a catalyzing force for community development.
Books of poetry on the shelves | Courtesy of Sims Library
In Southern California's Only Poetry Library, the Spirit of Inclusion Reigns
In response to L.A.'s transitory poetry scene, Hiram Sims has founded Southern California's only library of poetry, located in South Central Los Angeles.
Vanessa - Traducción
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Vanessa - Traducción
Get Lit poet Vanessa is unapologetic about herself.
The poetry section of a bookstore | Nick Fewings/Unsplash
Where to Find L.A. Poetry in the Time of Social Distance
Poetry’s ability to distill truth into a small and mighty form makes it apt for this time of fake news. Here’s where to find your daily dose.
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Spoken Word Poetry and Dance Performance Honors Ahmaud Arbery
"Until We Win" is an artists' response to the injustices faced by Black people who are brutalized by police. It is a song for solidarity and a poem to remember so that we never forget.
Students and faculty assemble outside the State Normal School in 1904
10 Questions: What is a University?
What are the roles of free speech, the performing arts, cultural politics and the humanities within the university campus? UCLA professors Bryonn Bain, Jerry Kang, David Schaberg and Robert Watson discuss "What is a University?"
Abbot Kinney's original plan for Venice of America. All the canals pictured here are now paved roads. Courtesy of the Los Angeles Public Library Map Collection.
Lost LA Field Notes: Venice
Venice has been in a state of perpetual renaissance since tobacco heir Abbot Kinney founded the seaside resort town in 1905. And yet traces of its past stubbornly persist in street names, artworks and the built environment.
Robin Lewis Coste | Photo Courtesy Amanda Schwengel and Hampshire College
L.A. Announces Newest Poet Laureate
Mayor Garcetti says her work "reclaims history for people who feel forgotten."
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