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.

Rosemarie Dombrowski

Rosemarie Dombrowski: Phoenix’s Inaugural Poet Laureate

Rosemarie Dombrowski is the inaugural Poet Laureate of Phoenix, Arizona, and a prominent figure in the city’s literary community. She is the founding editor of Write On, Downtown: A Journal of Phoenix Writing, and rinky dink press, a publisher specializing in micropoetry in microzine form. More recently, she launched The Revolution (Relaunch), a revisionary, radical resurgence of the weekly women’s rights newspaper originally founded by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony in 1868.

Dombrowski’s contributions to literature and poetry have been widely recognized. She is the recipient of five Pushcart Prize nominations and a Whiting Fellowship nomination in 2019. Her accolades also include the 2017 Arts Hero Award, the Carrie McCray Literary Award in Nonfiction, and a fellowship from the Lincoln Center for Applied Ethics in the same year. In April 2019, she was named a finalist for the Whitman Bicentennial Poetry Contest, sponsored by Brooklyn Poets.

Her published works include several notable collections. The Book of Emergencies (Five Oaks Press, 2014) explores the fragility of human existence, while The Philosophy of Unclean Things (Finishing Line Press, 2017) delves into the intersections of personal and collective histories. Her chapbook, The Cleavage Planes of Southwest Minerals [A Love Story], won the 2017 Split Rock Review chapbook competition, further solidifying her reputation as a profound and innovative poet.

In addition to her writing, Dombrowski is an esteemed educator. She teaches courses on Women’s Literature, Medical Humanities, Creative Ethnography, and Journal Curation/Editing at Arizona State University’s Downtown Phoenix campus. She is also involved with the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute and teaches at Changing Hands Bookstore, bringing her passion for literature to a broader community.

Rosemarie Dombrowski’s work is characterized by its depth, insight, and unwavering commitment to social justice and creative expression. As Phoenix’s Poet Laureate, she continues to inspire and influence both emerging and established writers, making significant contributions to the cultural fabric of Arizona.

Discover more poets and poetry from Arizona HERE.