Yawn Arbuckle
Yawn Arbuckle

Yawn Arbuckle, an esteemed individual hailing from the enchanting landscapes of Arizona, has dedicated their entire life to the pursuit of poetic excellence. From the sun-drenched deserts to the majestic mountains, Yawn's deep connection with Arizona has shaped their artistic journey. Born and raised in the vibrant city of Phoenix, they found solace and inspiration in the breathtaking beauty of the state. Yawn's passion for poetry blossomed at a young age, as they immersed themselves in the rich literary heritage of Arizona. They delved into the works of renowned poets who found solace in the vastness of the desert and translated their experiences into mesmerizing verses. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Yawn embarked on an academic journey dedicated to the study of poetry. Attending the prestigious University of Arizona, Yawn honed their poetic craft under the guidance of esteemed professors and immersed themselves in the vibrant literary community of the state. They explored the depths of poetic expression, intertwining the unique essence of Arizona with their own introspective musings. Throughout their academic tenure, Yawn delved into the works of Arizona's literary giants, drawing inspiration from the evocative landscapes and diverse cultural tapestry. Their studies encompassed everything from the poignant verses of Alberto Ríos, capturing the spirit of the Southwest, to the transcendent imagery of poets who found solace in the vastness of the Grand Canyon. Yawn's dedication to their craft led them to participate in numerous poetry workshops and gatherings, where they shared their own creations and engaged in profound discussions with fellow poets. Their unwavering commitment to poetry culminated in the publication of a remarkable anthology that beautifully encapsulated the essence of Arizona's poetic soul. Now, as the esteemed admin of this website, Yawn Arbuckle continues to be a guiding light for poetry enthusiasts, fostering a community where words come alive and imaginations soar. With their vast knowledge and profound understanding of Arizona's poetic legacy, Yawn strives to inspire others to embrace the transformative power of language and embark on their own poetic odysseys. Through their tireless efforts, Yawn Arbuckle remains an unwavering advocate for the poetic arts, breathing life into the pages of this website and inviting poetry lovers from all walks of life to embark on a journey of self-expression and creative exploration.
Chircahuas Sold A Barrel at the Gates by Logan Phillips | AZpoetry.com

“Chircahuas Sold A Barrel at the Gates” by Logan Phillips

Chircahuas Sold A Barrel at the Gates

Presidio of Tucson, May 1856

Late sun; sweat
pulled from the pores
by the giant sweat-eating sky.
Slowly drying up
there, spirits and steel.

Under suicide glide of sun, fifty nearly dead
drunk on periphery of presidio. Whiskey
in wounded wood, barrel from back
where whiskey is born, brought on
wagon train to the edge, to the adobe
fortress under changing flags.
Dark liquor & dark lips.

Leather is a type of skin.
Barrel tastes like gunmetal,
like the fingers near the lips.

Sun-hot, glass made with lead,
oil dancing on the outskirts of water

Whiskey, well-sat in sun, burning
the gut, held in its skeleton racks;
the barrel bound in its metal straps.

Camped there along the Santa Cruz,
the Chiricahuas are sold a barrel, sold

a slow powder keg,
a weapon to dull the stories.

Alcohol—a way of negotiating,
sign language of fist and grimace.

Alcohol held in the gut
as the horizon grows dim.

About the poet Logan Phillips

Logan Phillips’ poem “Chiricahuas Sold A Barrel at the Gates” vividly portrays a haunting historical moment on the harsh, sun-scorched frontier. Through rich, sensory imagery, Phillips captures the intersection of cultures, where whiskey becomes both a weapon and a bitter form of negotiation. The poem reflects on themes of colonialism, exploitation, and the human cost of survival under unrelenting desert skies.

To explore more about Logan Phillips, his bilingual work, and his contributions to poetry and performance art, visit his bio page on AZpoetry.com.

Explore More Featured Poems on AZpoetry.com

December Morning In The Desert by Alberto Rios
The morning is clouded and the birds are hunched,More cold than hungry, …
“The Laziest Man in the World” by Kalen Lander
Behold!The laziest man in the world Damn I'm a pearlCountless bedsores adorn …
“Tyin’ Knots in the Devils Tail” by Gail Gardner
Away up high in the Sierry Petes where the yeller Jack Pine …
“Recipe For Greatness” by Zane Grey
To bear up under loss; To fight the bitterness of defeat and …
December in the morning Alberto Rios artwork | AZpoetry.com

December Morning In The Desert by Alberto Rios

The morning is clouded and the birds are hunched,
More cold than hungry, more numb than loud,

This crisp, Arizona shore, where desert meets
The coming edge of the winter world.

It is a cold news in stark announcement,
The myriad stars making bright the black,

As if the sky itself had been snowed upon.
But the stars—all those stars,

Where does the sure noise of their hard work go?
These plugs sparking the motor of an otherwise quiet sky,

Their flickering work everywhere in a white vastness:
We should hear the stars as a great roar

Gathered from the moving of their billion parts, this great
Hot rod skid of the Milky Way across the asphalt night,

The assembled, moving glints and far-floating embers
Risen from the hearth-fires of so many other worlds.

Where does the noise of it all go
If not into the ears, then hearts of the birds all around us,

Their hearts beating so fast and their equally fast
Wings and high songs,

And the bees, too, with their lumbering hum,
And the wasps and moths, the bats, the dragonflies—

None of them sure if any of this is going to work,
This universe—we humans oblivious,

Drinking coffee, not quite awake, calm and moving
Into the slippers of our Monday mornings,

Shivering because, we think,
It’s a little cold out there.

About the poet Alberto Rios

In this evocative poem, Alberto Ríos captures the serene intersection of humanity and nature on a cold Arizona morning. The imagery of a crisp desert landscape juxtaposed with the celestial movements of stars and the industrious hum of birds and insects serves as a meditation on the quiet persistence of life. Ríos subtly reflects on the human tendency to overlook the vast, intricate workings of the universe as we carry on with mundane routines.

To learn more about Alberto Ríos, Arizona’s first Poet Laureate and a master of blending everyday moments with universal reflections, visit his bio page here and delve into the life and work of this celebrated poet.

The Laziest Man in the World poem Arizona poet Kalen Lander | AZpoetry.com

“The Laziest Man in the World” by Kalen Lander

Behold!
The laziest man in the world

Damn I’m a pearl
Countless bedsores adorn my soul
Check it, if you see my corpse walking round it’s a hoax
Cause in my head I’m at home

Tomes tell of my liquified bones
Don’t question it just keep an open mind
And know I’m holed up inside and it’s alright
It’s kinda like summer vacation
Well it’s more like mummification
It’s sorta like I’m Jason Statham
But instead of punching
I’m stuck in the basement
Yup

And I’ll I’m transporting are snacks to my mouth
All I look forward to is chilling out
All of my memories center around
How much I enjoy becoming one with the couch

Don’t tell me not to slouch these shoulders are heavy
Weight of the world? More like an early Wednesday
Wake up at 4 n then turn on the TV
Repeat indefinitely
Frozen pizza to me is a delicacy

Maybe people might say that I am my own worst enemy
I get all tuckered out from not exerting any energy
I prefer to be the middle link in human centipedes
I don’t want to be deciding when it’s time to shit n eat
Literally anything that isn’t sitting sickens me

I’ll pretend to be asleep when anybody intervenes
My mama wants to say I got a problem naw man
I’m taking after Grandma this rocker is awesome
And I ain’t getting up until you toss me off it
And then I’m probably gonna conk out on the carpet

Ooooo did I mention?
All this inactivity has given me heightened senses
I can smell a cheeto on the floor like it was incense
I can ignore the doorbell better than anybody ever
Got no competitors no natural predators

No feeling in my legs n no plans of leaving bed at all
N I would eat your disapproval if that shit was edible
I said it all before but I’m repetitive I’m
The Laziest man in the world

Music Video of “The Laziest Man in the World” performed by Snailmate

About the Poet Kalen Lander

Kalen Lander’s “The Laziest Man in the World” is a humorous and self-aware exploration of extreme idleness. With witty imagery and a tongue-in-cheek tone, the poem delves into the comforts of slouching, snacking, and avoiding the hustle of daily life. Lander’s ability to blend humor with sharp observation reflects his unique voice in the world of poetry and performance.

To learn more about Kalen Lander’s creative journey, his contributions to Arizona’s arts scene, and his evolution as a performer and poet, visit his full biography HERE.

Tyin a knot in the Devils Tail cowboy poet Gail Gardner | AZpoetry.com

“Tyin’ Knots in the Devils Tail” by Gail Gardner

Away up high in the Sierry Petes where the yeller Jack Pine grows tall
Ol’ Sandy Bob and Buster Jig had a rodeer camp last fall.

Oh, They’d taken their hosses and their runnin’ irons an’ maybe a dog or two
And ‘lowed they’d brand any long eared calves that come within their view.

And any old dogie that flapped long ears, An’ didn’t bush up by day,
Had his long ears whittled an’ his ol’ hide scorched in a most artistic way.

Now, one fine day ol’ Sandy Bob he throwed his seago down
“I’m sick of the smell of burnin’ hair and I low’s I’m a-goin’ to town.”

So they saddles up an’ hits ‘em a lope, ‘fer it weren’t no sight of a ride
And them was the days when a Buckeroo could ‘ile up his insides.

They starts her in at the Kaintucky Bar at the head of Whiskey Row
An’ they winds up down at the Depot House, some forty drinks below.

They then sets up and turns around and goes ‘er the other way
An’ to tell you the Gawd-forsaken truth, them boys got stewed that day!

As they was a-ridin’ back to camp a-packin’ a purty good load
Who should they meet but the Devil hisself just a prancing’ down the road!

Sez he, “You ornery cowboy skunks, you better hunt ‘yer holes!
Fer’ I’ve come up from Hell’s rim rock just to gather in your souls.”

Sez Sandy Bob, “Ol’ Devil be damned . . . we boys is kinda’ tight,
But you ain’t a-gonna’ gather no cowboy souls, without some kind o’ fight!”

So, Sandy Bob punched a hole in his rope, and he swang ‘er straight and true,
An he lapped it onto the Devil’s horns, an’ he taken his dallies too.

Now Buster Jig was a riata man, with his gut-line coiled up neat,
So he shaken her out an’ built him a loop, and he lassed the Devil’s hind feet.

They stretched him out and they tailed him down while the irons was a-gettin’ hot,
They cropped and swaller-forked his yeres, then they branded him up . . . a lot!

They pruned his horns with a de-hornin’ saw an’ they knotted his tail fer a joke,
Then they rid off and left him there, necket to a Black-Jack oak.

Well, if you’re ever up high in the Sierry Petes an’ you hear one Hell of a wail,
You’ll know it’s that Devil a-bellerin’ around about them knots in his tail.

About the Poet Gail Gardner

Gail Gardner’s “Sierry Petes” is a rollicking tale of cowboy antics and mischief, featuring two rowdy buckaroos who manage to outwit the Devil himself in classic Western style. Filled with humor, vivid imagery, and rugged charm, the poem showcases Gardner’s talent for capturing the wild and adventurous spirit of the Old West.

To learn more about Gail Gardner’s life, his impact on cowboy poetry, and his enduring legacy in Arizona’s literary tradition, visit his full biography HERE.

Gail Gardner Cowboy Poet Arizona | AZpoetry.com

Gail Gardner

Gail Gardner: The Legendary Cowboy Poet of Prescott

Gail Irwin Gardner (1892–1988) was a trailblazing cowboy poet and rancher whose legacy is firmly rooted in the cultural history of Prescott, Arizona. Known for his humor, authenticity, and vivid storytelling, Gardner’s poems captured the rugged spirit of the Old West and earned him a place as one of the most beloved cowboy poets of his time.

Early Life in Arizona

Born on Christmas Day in 1892, Gail Gardner grew up in Prescott, Arizona, a town he would call home for nearly his entire life. Raised in the heart of the Wild West, Gardner’s childhood was shaped by the natural beauty and tough realities of frontier life.

Although he would eventually become synonymous with cowboy culture, Gardner was initially drawn to academia. He graduated from Prescott High School in 1910 and attended Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. However, the pull of the Arizona ranching lifestyle ultimately brought him back home.

A Life of Many Hats

Throughout his life, Gail Gardner wore many hats—both literally and figuratively. He was a scholar, an accomplished athlete, a reluctant storekeeper, a cowboy, a rancher, and even a postmaster. Yet no matter the role, Gardner always brought his unique perspective and sharp wit to his endeavors.

He was deeply involved in the Prescott community, becoming a key figure in some of its most iconic institutions. Gardner was a founding member of the Smoki People, a group dedicated to preserving Indigenous culture and history, and an original member of the Prescott Corral of Westerners International, an organization devoted to the history of the American West.

Gardner also played an integral role in Prescott’s “World’s Oldest Rodeo,” a celebrated tradition that exemplifies the region’s cowboy heritage.

Cowboy Poetry and “Sierry Petes”

Gail Gardner is best remembered for his cowboy poetry, which brought humor, authenticity, and a deep sense of place to tales of the Old West. His most famous poem, “Sierry Petes (Tying Knots in the Devil’s Tail),” is a rollicking story about two cowboys who encounter the Devil in the Arizona mountains. Written in 1917, the poem is cherished for its colorful language, lively rhythm, and timeless charm.

“Sierry Petes” became a cornerstone of cowboy poetry and has been performed and adapted by countless musicians and storytellers. The poem exemplifies Gardner’s talent for capturing the essence of cowboy life while entertaining audiences with larger-than-life characters and humorous twists.

Contributions to Western Culture

Gardner’s impact extended far beyond his poetry. As a rancher, he embodied the spirit of the West, working the land and living the life he so vividly described in his verse. As a storyteller, he preserved the traditions and values of a disappearing way of life, ensuring that the legends of the cowboy would endure for generations.

His work earned him recognition and admiration across the Southwest, and he became a celebrated figure in the cowboy poetry movement. Gardner’s legacy continues to inspire poets, musicians, and writers who seek to capture the spirit of the West in their art.

A Lasting Legacy

Gail Gardner passed away in 1988, but his contributions to Arizona’s cultural heritage remain. His poetry, especially “Sierry Petes,” is a testament to his talent as a wordsmith and his love for the rugged beauty of the American West.

Gardner’s work is a vital part of Arizona’s literary tradition, standing as a bridge between the past and the present. His ability to blend humor, authenticity, and storytelling has left an indelible mark on cowboy poetry and ensured his place as one of the genre’s most influential figures.

Discover More Arizona Poets HERE!

Posted in Poets  • 
Logan Phillips Arizona poet | AZpoetry.com

Logan Phillips

Logan Phillips: Bilingual Poet, Performer, and Borderlands Storyteller

Logan Phillips is a bilingual poet, performer, DJ, and educator whose work bridges cultures, languages, and artistic disciplines. Raised in the Arizona/Sonora borderlands, Phillips brings the vibrancy and complexity of this region to his poetry and performances, creating art that resonates on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border and beyond.

Early Life and Borderlands Roots

Born to a family of Irish and Slavic descent, Logan Phillips grew up surrounded by the landscapes, cultures, and tensions of the Arizona/Sonora border. This upbringing shaped his identity as a storyteller and artist committed to amplifying borderland narratives and cross-cultural exchange. His artistic voice is deeply tied to his bilingualism, allowing him to navigate and celebrate the intersection of English and Spanish in his work.

Living and Writing in Mexico City

From 2006 to 2011, Phillips lived in and around Mexico City, where he immersed himself in the local arts and literary scenes. During this time, he co-organized and hosted the country’s first regular poetry slam series, helping to establish spoken word as a prominent art form in Mexico. Simultaneously, he explored his talents as a DJ under the moniker DJ Dirtyverbs, spinning music at house parties and underground mezcalerías in Cuernavaca.

Phillips’ time in Mexico City enriched his storytelling, adding depth to his work as he explored themes of identity, language, and belonging in a globalized world.

Sonoran Strange: A Landmark Work

In 2012, Phillips co-directed Verbo•bala Spoken Video, a transdisciplinary performance group that merges poetry, video, and live performance. That same year, Verbo•bala received an Artist Project Grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts for the development of their performance piece Sonoran Strange.

Sonoran Strange later became the title of Phillips’ debut full-length book of poetry, published by Albuquerque’s West End Press. The book is a powerful exploration of the American Southwest, offering a poetic meditation on themes such as colonization, environmental destruction, and cultural hybridity. It stands as a seminal work in contemporary borderlands literature.

Educator and Community Organizer

Since 2005, Logan Phillips has been dedicated to teaching and community engagement, using poetry as a tool for empowerment and self-expression. He co-founded and co-directed Spoken Futures, Inc., an organization that fostered youth voices through programs such as the Tucson Youth Poetry Slam. From 2012 to 2019, Spoken Futures provided a platform for young poets in Arizona, offering workshops, performance opportunities, and mentorship to emerging voices in the state.

Phillips’ commitment to education and advocacy has made him a central figure in Arizona’s spoken word and literary communities. His work inspires audiences and students to explore their own identities and amplify their stories.

A Touring Artist with Global Reach

Phillips has performed extensively across the United States, Latin America, and beyond, sharing stages with other internationally acclaimed poets and performers. His bilingualism allows him to connect with diverse audiences, blending English and Spanish in ways that reflect the borderland’s cultural and linguistic realities.

Whether he’s performing poetry, DJing as Dirtyverbs, or collaborating with other artists, Logan Phillips is known for his dynamic and engaging style, which combines powerful storytelling with innovative artistic expression.

Legacy and Influence

As a poet, performer, and educator, Logan Phillips continues to shape the artistic landscape of Arizona and the borderlands. His work challenges and inspires audiences to reflect on themes of identity, place, and social justice. Through his poetry, teaching, and community organizing, Phillips has solidified his role as a vital voice in Arizona’s literary scene and a champion for cross-cultural dialogue.

Discover more Arizona Poets HERE!

Posted in Poets  • 
Kalen Lander poet | AZpoetry.com

Kalen Lander

Kalen Lander: Poet, Hip-Hop Artist, and Tempe Icon

Kalen Lander, a cornerstone of Arizona’s hip-hop and spoken word scene, has been a defining force in the artistic fabric of Tempe for over a decade. Known for his quick-witted rhymes and improvisational prowess, Lander has built a reputation as a dynamic live performer who brings poetry and hip-hop into every corner of the local music scene. His fearless approach to the stage and collaborative spirit has made him a vital contributor to Arizona’s creative community.

Early Roots and Rise in the Tempe Scene

Kalen Lander’s early years in Tempe cemented his legacy as one of the city’s most respected and sought-after hip-hop artists. At the height of Long Wong’s legendary era—a hotspot for Tempe’s musicians and creatives—Lander worked behind the bar while simultaneously leaving his mark on the stage. Known for his impromptu performances, he would jump into live sets to deliver fresh rhymes and enhance the energy of the moment, embodying the “in the moment” artistry that defines his career.

As the leader of TKLB? (The Kalen Lander Band), Lander became known for his beat-heavy soundscapes and impactful delivery. Though TKLB? never released a full album, Lander’s contributions to the Arizona music scene are significant, with collaborations spanning across genres and groups.

Collaborations and Contributions

Lander’s versatility as an artist has led to partnerships with some of Tempe’s most prominent bands. His hip-hop verses appear on tracks like “Ballad of Dean” and “House of Wood” by Japhy’s Descent, where his voice adds depth and energy to their storytelling. He’s also a frequent contributor to Sister Lip, lighting up their live performances with raps on tracks like “Pure Honey” and “Ride the Pony”.

From lending his talents to Beatles cover sets with Future Loves Past to collaborations with Darkness Dear Boy, Kalen Lander has consistently elevated the performances and recordings of fellow musicians. His ability to merge poetry, rhythm, and improvisation has made him a trusted and celebrated collaborator across Arizona’s creative circles.

Transition to Snailmate

Today, Kalen Lander is best known as half of the rock/hip-hop duo Snailmate, alongside multi-instrumentalist Bentley Monet. Known for their explosive energy and genre-defying sound, Snailmate combines Lander’s signature rap delivery with Monet’s synth-driven melodies, creating an entirely unique experience that continues to garner attention locally and nationally. The duo’s touring schedule and creative output have solidified Lander as a dynamic force in the indie music world.

Lander’s Poetry and Spoken Word Legacy

While primarily celebrated for his music, Kalen Lander’s roots in poetry and spoken word shine through in his intricate lyricism and live performances. A master of improvisation, his ability to craft impactful rhymes on the fly reflects the influence of poetry in his artistry. His presence in Tempe’s spoken word and music communities has inspired countless artists to experiment with blending poetry and hip-hop.

A Champion of Arizona’s Creative Spirit

Kalen Lander’s influence extends beyond the stage. As a collaborator, performer, and community figure, he embodies the innovative and inclusive energy of Arizona’s arts scene. Whether performing as part of Snailmate, jumping onstage for an impromptu rhyme, or amplifying the works of local artists, Lander continues to be a vital figure in the world of Arizona hip-hop and poetry.

Discover more Arizona Poets HERE!

Posted in Poets  • 
Aaron Hopkins-Johnson AZpoetry.com Lawn Gnome Publishing bookstore

Aaron Hopkins-Johnson

Aaron Hopkins-Johnson: Poet, Organizer, and Arts Advocate

Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, a revered artist and writer based in Phoenix, Arizona, has made an indelible impact on the spoken word and poetry communities across the Southwest and beyond. Known for his dynamic performances, tireless event organizing, and advocacy for the arts, Aaron’s influence has stretched across nearly two decades of Arizona’s literary and performance art history.

A Champion in Spoken Word Performance

Aaron’s accolades in performance poetry are both impressive and far-reaching. In 2001, he became the International Poetry Interpretation Champion at the International Forensics Association, showcasing his skill in crafting and delivering emotionally resonant poetry. Over the years, he has performed alongside iconic figures in spoken word and literature, including Gil Scott-Heron, Saul Williams, Buddy Wakefield, Andrea Gibson, Henry Rollins, and Rachel McKibbens, to name just a few.

As a competitor, Aaron represented Arizona on multiple National Poetry Slam (NPS) stages, earning spots on both the Flagstaff Poetry Slam Team and the Phoenix Poetry Slam Team. Notably, he was a Haiku Deathmatch Finalist at NPS and the Arcosanti Slab City Slam Regional Haiku Champion, demonstrating his creative range in both traditional and experimental formats.

Builder of Community and Platforms for Poetry

Aaron’s commitment to fostering the poetry community in Arizona is unparalleled. From 2006 to 2008, he served as the SlamMaster of FlagSlam, ensuring the vibrant Flagstaff poetry scene remained a cornerstone of regional spoken word culture. He also hosted the beloved Monday Night Open Mic at Applesauce Teahouse and directed various flagship events, including the Southwest Shootout Regional Qualifiers, the Treetop Poetry Regional Slam, and the 2014 Individual World Poetry Slam (IWPS).

Additionally, Hopkins-Johnson was on the 2009 Phoenix Poetry Slam team alongside Myrlin Hepworth, The Klute and Ed Mabrey – an incredible team that placed the highest of any slam poetry team from Arizona in a National Poetry Slam. Aaron worked as the Program Director of Operations at NORAZpoets, supporting and mentoring poets throughout Northern Arizona. His legacy as an organizer extends far beyond local borders, making Arizona a vital hub for poetry and performance.

A Decade with Lawn Gnome Publishing

From 2004 to 2023, Aaron operated Lawn Gnome Publishing, a multifaceted space that served as a poetry venue, indie bookstore, and cultural nexus in Phoenix. Hosting events almost daily for nearly two decades, Lawn Gnome became a community cornerstone for Arizona artists, poets, and creatives.

Grant Recipient and Teaching Artist

Aaron’s contributions to Arizona’s arts scene have been recognized with multiple prestigious grants, including funding from the Arizona Humanities Council, National Endowment for the Arts, and the Arizona Commission on the Arts. These grants supported a range of his educational and community projects, from public art installations to teaching artist residencies.

A committed educator, Aaron facilitated workshops and programming at the Mesa Center for the Arts, empowering young poets and fostering a love for the written word. His “We Are One” grant-funded projects through the City of Glendale and his collaborations with the City of Phoenix cemented his legacy as a key figure in Arizona’s arts development.

Published Works and Poetry Collections

Throughout his career, Aaron Hopkins-Johnson published multiple collections of poetry that highlight his wit, depth, and unique voice. His books include:

  • “Roach Killer For Her”
  • “Chainsawsmoking“
  • “Rights4Lefty”
  • “Watering The Poetry”
  • “Irony Stinks: My Life Is Irony”

Each collection reflects Aaron’s raw, honest, and unfiltered style, offering readers an intimate glimpse into his creative mind.

Retirement and Legacy

In 2023, Aaron Hopkins-Johnson officially retired from public performances, event organizing, and projects, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of creativity and community impact. His years of tireless work have laid the foundation for future generations of poets, performers, and artists in Arizona and beyond.

Aaron’s story is a testament to the transformative power of art and the importance of building platforms for others to shine. Even in retirement, his influence continues to ripple through Arizona’s poetry scene, cementing his place as one of the most significant contributors to the spoken word community in the Southwest.

Discover more poets of Arizona HERE!

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Art inspired by Recipe for Greatness poem by Zane Grey AZpoetry.com

“Recipe For Greatness” by Zane Grey

To bear up under loss;
To fight the bitterness of defeat
and the weakness of grief;
To be victor over anger;
To smile when tears are close;
To resist disease and evil
men and base instincts;
To hate hate and to love love;
To go on when it would seem good to die;
To look up with unquenchable faith
in something ever more about to be.
That is what any man can do,
and be great.

About the Poet Zane Grey

Zane Grey’s Recipe for Greatness is a stirring reflection on resilience, love, and unyielding faith in the face of life’s most challenging trials. With profound simplicity, Grey outlines the qualities that define true greatness—overcoming loss, embracing love, resisting hatred, and persevering when giving up feels easier. His words inspire readers to strive for a higher ideal, even in the darkest moments, reminding us of the strength that lies within.

Discover more about Zane Grey’s life, his influence on Western literature, and his connection to Arizona HERE. Click to learn about the legendary storyteller who infused his works with the spirit of the American West!

Discover more poetry inspired by Arizona HERE.

Leah Marche AZpoetry.com

Leah Marché

Leah Marché: A Multifaceted Poet and Arts Entrepreneur

Leah Marché is a distinguished arts entrepreneur, performance poet, and journalist whose dynamic contributions to the literary and artistic communities of Phoenix, Arizona, and beyond have left a significant impact. Born and raised in Phoenix, Marché’s work spans multiple disciplines, showcasing her versatility and passion for the arts. Her dedication to fostering creative expression and community engagement is evident in her numerous accomplishments and ongoing projects.

Early Life and Background

Leah Marché’s journey into the world of poetry and arts began early in her life. With a natural inclination towards creative expression, she pursued her interests with vigor, eventually carving out a niche for herself in the vibrant artistic landscape of Phoenix. Her early exposure to the arts and her innate talent for storytelling laid the foundation for a prolific career as a performance poet and arts entrepreneur.

BlackPoet Ventures

In 2005, Leah Marché co-founded BlackPoet Ventures (BPV), a performance arts company based in Phoenix. BPV is dedicated to producing spoken word theatrical performances that highlight the richness and diversity of Black culture and experiences. Under her leadership, BPV has created and performed in numerous critically acclaimed productions, captivating audiences with their powerful narratives and dynamic performances.

BPV’s innovative approach to spoken word and theatrical productions caught the attention of the Robert Rauschenberg Foundation, which awarded the company a surprise three-year seed grant in 2013. This grant provided crucial support, enabling BPV to expand its reach and continue its mission of promoting artistic excellence and cultural awareness.

National Poetry Slam and Performances

Leah Marché has represented Phoenix on two National Poetry Slam teams, competing in 2007 and 2011. Her participation in these national events showcased her exceptional talent and solidified her reputation as a formidable performance poet. Beyond the National Poetry Slam, Marché has graced numerous stages and community events with her spoken word poetry, captivating audiences with her emotive delivery and poignant themes.

Her notable presentations include appearances at the GreenBiz Forum, the Arts & Business Council of Phoenix’s Annual Breakfast, Ignite Phoenix 10 with her talk “So You THINK You Can Design?”, and TEDx Phoenix/Scottsdale where she shared a poem and discussed the topic “Starving Artists.”

Contributions to the Arts Community

In addition to her performance career, Leah Marché has made significant contributions to the arts community through various roles and initiatives. She serves on the administrative staff at the Herberger Theater Center, a premier performing arts venue in Phoenix. Her work there underscores her commitment to supporting and promoting the arts within her community.

As a freelance graphic designer, Marché brings a creative flair to her visual projects, complementing her literary and performance work. She is a founding member and organizer of Convergent Arts, an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation among artists from different disciplines. Additionally, she co-coordinates the Several Lives Book Club and contributes as a writer for BroadwayBlack.com, a platform celebrating the achievements of Black artists in theater.

Send-A-Poet and SEED SPOT

Leah Marché’s entrepreneurial spirit is evident in her creation of the Send-A-Poet project, which was selected for the inaugural Community Ventures Program of SEED SPOT, a social entrepreneur incubator. This project reflects her vision of using poetry as a means of connection and communication, bringing the art form to a broader audience and fostering a deeper appreciation for literary arts.

Radio and Community Engagement

Marché has also made her mark in the realm of radio, hosting two weekly arts and culture programs on RadioPhoenix.org, an online community radio station. Her shows, “The Bungalow Show” and “LIVE POETIC,” provided a platform for artists and cultural discussions, further cementing her role as a key figure in the Phoenix arts scene.

Awards and Recognition

Leah Marché’s contributions have been recognized with several prestigious awards. She was the recipient of the inaugural Arizona Art Tank grant in 2014, which supports innovative arts projects that engage and enrich the community. In 2013, she was a finalist in the Phoenix New Times Big Brain Awards, which honor creative individuals making significant contributions to the local arts and culture landscape.

Legacy and Impact

Leah Marché’s work as a poet, arts entrepreneur, and community advocate has left an indelible mark on the Phoenix arts scene. Her ability to blend performance, entrepreneurship, and community engagement highlights her multifaceted talent and dedication to fostering artistic expression. Through her various initiatives, Marché continues to inspire and uplift others, using her voice and vision to make a lasting impact.

Her contributions to poetry and the arts are a testament to the power of creativity and the importance of supporting and nurturing artistic communities. Leah Marché stands as a beacon of innovation and dedication, embodying the spirit of artistic entrepreneurship and community leadership.

For more information about Leah Marché and her work, visit AZpoetry.com.

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