Corbet Dean

Honoring the Journey: Corbet Dean’s Poetic Odyssey

In the realm of Arizona poetry, Corbet Dean stands as a remarkable voice shaped by a life-altering experience. It was an evening in May 1994 when tragedy struck, as three policemen were wounded by a lone gunman in Southwest Phoenix. Corbet, one of the injured officers, embarked on a transformative journey to process the profound impact of that fateful incident.

In 2000, Corbet was invited to share his powerful experience at the renowned Spoken Word Festival in Tempe, AZ. Through his poetry, he conveyed the raw emotions surrounding the confrontation, leaving a lasting impression. His exceptional performance caught the attention of Gary Mex Glazner, who lauded Corbet’s work in a festival review for About.com. The Mesa Tribune further recognized his talent by publishing a portion of his poem in an article celebrating Arizona’s poetry scene. Eventually, Corbet’s poignant verses found their place in the anthology “OFF THE CUFFS,” published by Soft Skull Press.

In the following years, Corbet’s poetic prowess continued to flourish. He clinched his first Grand Slam Championship in Arizona shortly after being named “Slam Artist of the Year” by his local venue. Corbet’s success persisted, securing another championship in 2001 and placing second in North America at the prestigious National Poetry Slam in Minneapolis in 2002.

Corbet’s reputation as a captivating performer spread, leading him to grace stages across the country. His poetic journey took him to iconic venues like the Nuyorican Poets Cafe in NYC, the Berkeley Slam in San Francisco, and the esteemed National Poetry Slam in Chicago. A testament to his artistry, Corbet’s unforgettable performance at the Bowery Poetry Club in 2003 was later featured on The Best of Urbana, 2003 CD. He continued to impress, achieving yet another “top ten” finish at the 2005 National Slam.

With an impressive record of seven local slam titles, Corbet Dean solidified his presence in the poetry scene. Amidst his relentless dedication to his craft, Corbet released three prose collections, edited a benefit anthology, and produced a captivating DVD film. His work found its way into esteemed publications such as The Arizona Republic, Freedom To Speak (Wordsmith Press), Poems from the Big Muddy (Wordsmith Press), High Desert Vocies (Wordsmith Press), An Idiot’s Guide to Slam Poetry (Alpha Books), and The Spoken Word Revolution Redux (Source Books). Anticipation grew for Corbet’s first full-length manuscript, “A Collection of Crime Scenes,” scheduled for release in 2007 through Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, and his personal website.

Beyond his poetic endeavors, Corbet Dean currently serves as a police officer, determined to effect positive change within the system. During his time away from the department, he embarks on journeys across the country, sharing unique and profound poems that explore the essence of God, love, and the intricate tapestry of life itself. Corbet Dean’s resolute commitment to both his artistic expression and his pursuit of justice makes him an influential figure within the Arizona poetry landscape.

Discover and learn more about poets and poetry from Arizona HERE.

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.