Directory of Arizona Poets
Welcome to our comprehensive directory of Arizona Poets. This carefully curated collection showcases the diverse and talented poets from the beautiful state of Arizona. From the iconic landscapes of the Grand Canyon to the vibrant city life of Phoenix, our directory encompasses the unique voices and artistic expressions that thrive in this creative oasis. Whether you’re searching for established poets or emerging wordsmiths, our directory provides a platform to explore their works, gain inspiration, and connect with the rich literary scene of Arizona. Immerse yourself in the captivating verses and poetic journeys of Arizona’s finest wordsmiths.
Explore the works of seasoned wordsmiths and emerging talents who have found inspiration in the deserts, mountains, and urban landscapes of Arizona. From the rhythmic verses echoing the traditions of the Southwest to the contemporary expressions pushing the boundaries of poetic artistry, our directory celebrates the kaleidoscope of voices shaping Arizona’s poetry scene.
Discover the stories, emotions, and perspectives etched into each poem, creating a mosaic of experiences that resonate with the essence of Arizona. Whether you’re a poetry enthusiast, a fellow poet, or someone curious about the creative pulse of the region, the AZPoetry.com Poet Directory invites you to delve into the heart of Arizona’s literary soul.
Join us in celebrating the power of words, the beauty of expression, and the diverse voices that collectively form the poetry of Arizona. Navigate through our directory and be captivated by the myriad tales woven by these poets under the Arizona sun.
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 …
Ada McCormick - Ada McCormick: Writer, Activist, and Advocate for Social Justice Ada Peirce McCormick (March 28, 1888 – August 4, 1974) was an influential writer, activist, and lecturer who made significant contributions to civil rights and social justice, particularly in Tucson, Arizona, where she spent much of her life. Born into a wealthy family in Bangor, Maine, …
Alberto Ríos - Alberto Ríos: A Celebrated Poet and Storyteller Alberto Ríos, an acclaimed writer, weaves language into lyrical and unexpected forms, enchanting readers with his poems and short stories. His works reflect his Chicano heritage and incorporate elements of magical realism. Ríos developed a unique “third language” as a result of growing up in a Spanish-speaking family …
Alice Cooper - Alice Cooper: The Dark Poet of Rock Alice Cooper, born Vincent Damon Furnier on February 4, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, is a legendary figure in the world of rock music and one of the most distinctive songwriters of his generation. Known for his theatrical and often macabre performances, Cooper’s work extends beyond the stage into …
Amber McCrary - Amber McCrary: Diné Poet, Zine Creator, and Radical Publisher Amber McCrary, a Diné (Navajo) poet, artist, and publisher, hails from Shonto, Arizona, and was raised in Flagstaff. She has become a significant voice in contemporary Indigenous literature, with a unique blend of punk-influenced aesthetics, intersectional feminism, and Diné identity. McCrary’s work traverses poetry, zines, collages, …
Anna Flores - Anna Flores: Arizona-Born Poet and Cultural Storyteller Anna Flores is an emerging voice in contemporary American poetry, with deep ties to the cultural landscapes of the U.S.-Mexico border. Born in Nogales, Arizona, Flores’s work is shaped by the complex intersection of her heritage, environment, and identity. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from Arizona …
atlas st. cloud - atlas st. cloud: Poet, Advocate, and Voice for Queer and Disabled Communities atlas st. cloud is a poet from Phoenix, Arizona, who uses his writing to explore themes of gender, queerness, mental health, and disability. Raised in the conservative traditions of the Mormon faith, atlas’s work is deeply personal, often grappling with the complexities of …
Austin Davis - Austin Davis: Poet, Advocate, and Founder of AZ HUGS Austin Davis is a multifaceted artist and advocate whose work spans poetry, music, and social activism. Born in Indiana, Davis found his creative and activist calling after moving to Arizona, where he pursued a degree in creative writing at Arizona State University. His deep commitment to …
Badger Clark - Badger Clark (Charles Badger Clark Jr.) was born on January 1, 1883, in Albany, Iowa, and became one of the most iconic voices in American Western poetry. Though he is most commonly associated with South Dakota, where he served as the state’s poet laureate for many years, Clark spent a significant amount of time in …
Beth May - Beth May: From Phoenix Poetry Roots to National Stage Early Life and Connection to Poetry Beth May, a poet, writer, actor, and performer, grew up in Phoenix, Arizona, where she discovered her love for spoken word poetry. As a student at Arizona State University, Beth began honing her poetic voice, crafting emotionally resonant and often …
Bill Campana - Bill Campana: 1990’s Poetry Slam Icon to Master of Writing With Style and Wit. Bill Campana is a poet who defies conventions and leaves audiences spellbound with his razor-sharp and entertaining poetry. With a career rooted in the vibrant 1990s poetry slam movement, Bill Campana has established himself as a versatile writer, exploring various styles …
Bojan Louis - Bojan Louis: Diné Poet, Author, and Educator Bojan Louis, a Diné (Navajo) writer of the Naakai dine’é (Mexican clan) and born for the Áshííhí (Salt clan), is a multifaceted literary talent whose work spans poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and teaching. Louis has become a prominent figure in Native American literature, garnering national recognition for his honest, …
C.S. Wortley - C.S. Wortley: Poet of the Arizona Desert C.S. Wortley, an American poet of the early 20th century, captured the stark beauty and profound solitude of the Arizona desert in his evocative verses. While less known than some of his contemporaries, Wortley’s work remains a testament to the power of poetry to convey the essence of …
Christopher Fox Graham - Nestled in the heart of Sedona, Arizona, amidst the striking red rock formations and the whispered secrets of the desert winds, resides a poet whose verses echo with the rugged beauty of the Southwest. Christopher Fox Graham, affectionately known as CFG, is not merely a poet and writer; he is a literary force that has …
Christopher Lane - Christopher Lane: Triumph and Tragedy Though his time with us was tragically cut short, Christopher Lane’s journey through triumph and struggle serves as a powerful testament to the impact of his words and the depths of his poetic expression. Christopher Lane, a talented poet from Arizona, bravely confronted the demons of addiction throughout his life. …
Clarence Urmy - Clarence Urmy: Poet of the American West Clarence Thomas Urmy (1851 – 1923) was an American poet known for his vivid and heartfelt depictions of the American West. Born in San Francisco, California, Urmy grew up amid the burgeoning cultural and artistic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His work is celebrated …
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 …
Cylie Naylor - Cylie Naylor: Voice of the Ghost Poetry Show Early Life and Inspiration Cylie Naylor emerged as a significant figure in the poetry community of Phoenix, Arizona, establishing herself as both a powerful writer and a compelling performer. From her earliest days, Naylor was drawn to the written word, finding solace and expression through poetry. Her …
Dan Seaman - Dan Seaman: The Poet of Prescott Longtime Prescott resident Dan Seaman’s poetry has been described as “romantic realism,” a term that captures his poignant exploration of love, loss, and the human experience. His work is deeply rooted in the everyday struggles and triumphs of the working class, reflecting his profound empathy and understanding of their …
Dom Flemons - Dom Flemons: From Arizona Slam Poetry to Grammy-Winning Folk Musician Dom Flemons, widely known as “The American Songster,” is a versatile poet, songwriter, and musician whose work has made a profound impact on Arizona’s creative landscape. Born and raised in Phoenix, Flemons began his artistic journey in the state’s rich artistic and cultural communities. His …
Ed Mabrey - Ed Mabrey: Poet, Performer, and Slam Champion Ed Mabrey is a powerhouse in the world of spoken word and slam poetry, earning his place as one of the most decorated poets in slam history. As a three-time Individual World Poetry Slam (IWPS) Champion—making history as the first Black poet to win the title—Ed has redefined …
Edward Abbey - Edward Abbey: Champion of the American Southwest Edward Paul Abbey, born on January 29, 1927, in Indiana, Pennsylvania, left an indelible mark on American literature and environmental activism. A fervent advocate for the American Southwest, Abbey’s best-known works include the iconic novel “The Monkey Wrench Gang” and the influential non-fiction piece “Desert Solitaire.” His writings …
Eirean Bradley - Eirean Bradley: Illuminating the Dark Corners of Human Experience Eirean Bradley is a contemporary poet whose work delves into the shadows of the human condition, uncovering moments of raw authenticity and illuminating them with stark, powerful prose. A 17 year-old Bradley discovered slam poetry by sneaking in a nightclub with a fake ID to see …
Erin Kong - Erin Kong: Bridging Diaspora, Trauma, and Storytelling Erin Kong is a second-generation Korean-American storyteller and scholar whose work explores the intricate and often poignant intersections of diaspora, death, and what they playfully refer to as “daddy issues”—a reflection on intergenerational trauma with a touch of alliterative humor. Their unique voice and perspective have established them …
Frankie Marchi - Frankie Marchi: Arizona Native, Slam Poet, and Forensics Champion Frankie Marchi is a dynamic and accomplished poet hailing from Arizona. A graduate of Arizona State University (ASU), Marchi first gained recognition in the competitive world of Speech and Debate, where his talent for performance and interpretation flourished. His involvement in speech and debate laid the …
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 …
Harold Branch - Harold Branch: From Hardship to Poetic Inspiration Harold Branch, is sometimes affectionately known as HB or Homebase. Or as he says in one of his most well-known poems, “I am the Kaiser Sozer of falling down.” This mini biography invites you to explore the transformative path that led Harold from adversity to becoming a prominent …
Harriet Monroe - Harriet Monroe: Pioneer of Modern American Poetry Harriet Monroe, born on December 23, 1860, in Chicago, Illinois, was a poet, critic, and editor who played a pivotal role in shaping modern American poetry. She is best known as the founding publisher and editor of *Poetry* magazine, a landmark publication that provided a platform for many …
Jack Evans - Jack Evans: Illuminating Lives Through Poetry Rain is the Hourglass of Memory by Jack Evans Born on the banks of the Hudson River during the twilight years of the reign of Roosevelt II, Jack Evans embodies a poetic spirit that has flourished across generations. His journey led him to a humble abode overlooking the dusty …
James William Foley - James William Foley: The Poet of the American West James William Foley (1874-1939) was an American poet, journalist, and influential figure in the political landscape of North Dakota. Known for his evocative depictions of the American West, Foley’s work captures the rugged beauty and pioneering spirit of Arizona and the broader Western frontier. His contributions …
Jason Lalli - Jason Lalli: Phoenix Performance Poet and Community Advocate Jason Lalli is a well-known performance poet and arts organizer in Phoenix, Arizona, dedicated to bringing poetry and the arts to the forefront of the city’s cultural landscape. Lalli’s journey as a poet began at age 19, but it wasn’t until his late 20s that he truly …
Jeremiah Blue - Jeremiah Blue: Poet, Performer, and Community Leader Jeremiah Blue stands as a multifaceted figure in the creative world, with a career that spans writing, performance, organizing, and hosting. Since 2006, he has been a cornerstone of the poetry community in the greater Phoenix, Arizona area, where his influence and dedication have fostered a vibrant and …
Jimmy Santiago Baca - Jimmy Santiago Baca: From Incarceration to Literary Triumph Jimmy Santiago Baca is a renowned American poet and writer whose transformative journey from a troubled youth to a celebrated literary figure stands as a testament to the power of resilience and the redemptive potential of the written word. Born on January 2, 1952, in Santa Fe, …
John Gould Fletcher - John Gould Fletcher: Imagist Poet of the American South and Southwest John Gould Fletcher (January 3, 1886 – May 10, 1950) was an influential American poet and literary critic known for his vivid imagery and innovative free verse. As a prominent figure in the Imagist movement, Fletcher’s work is characterized by its clear, precise imagery …
Joy Young - Joy Young: A Dynamic Storyteller and Performance Poet Joy Young is a versatile storyteller, performance poet, educator, and curriculum development expert whose work is dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices in the literary and performance arts. With a career spanning national stages, classrooms, and community spaces, Joy uses storytelling as a transformative tool for connection, healing, …
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 …
Kevin Flanagan - Kevin Flanagan: A Dynamic Voice in Arizona’s Literary and Performance Scenes Kevin Flanagan is a versatile writer and performer who began his artistic journey in the bustling creative venues of Phoenix, Arizona. With a background that spans across comedy, improv theater, poetry, and speculative fiction, Flanagan’s work is characterized by its boundary-pushing exploration of dark, …
Lauren Deja - Lauren Deja: Poet, Performer, and Holistic Healer Lauren Deja is a multifaceted artist and healer, blending the worlds of performance poetry, music, acting, and holistic wellness to create a unique and inspiring presence in the arts and wellness communities. A professional French horn player and actor with experience in both theater and film, Lauren’s creativity …
Lauren Perry - Lauren Perry: The Zombie in the World of Slam Poetry Lauren Perry, originally from Elgin, Illinois, has carved a unique niche in the world of slam poetry with her dynamic performances and eclectic influences. Now based in Phoenix, Arizona, Perry has become a prominent figure in both local and national poetry scenes, drawing inspiration from …
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 …
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 …
Mary Hunter Austin - Mary Hunter Austin: Chronicler of the American Desert Mary Hunter Austin (September 9, 1868 – August 13, 1934) was a pioneering American writer and poet whose work captured the essence of the American West, particularly the desert landscapes of California and the Southwest. Austin’s deep connection to the natural world and her insightful observations of …
Mary Sojourner - Mary Sojourner: Writer, Poet, and Advocate for the Southwest Mary Sojourner is a renowned novelist, poet, essayist, and environmental activist whose work deeply reflects the landscapes and cultural nuances of the American Southwest. Since relocating to Arizona in 1985, she has dedicated her career to exploring themes of loss, desire, human resilience, and the intricate …
Mikel Weisser - Mikel Weisser: Poet, Activist, and Renaissance Man Mikel Weisser (1959–May 2020) was a true Renaissance man whose life and work spanned the realms of poetry, activism, teaching, and community service. Known for his fiery passion for social justice, advocacy for cannabis reform, and unique creative voice, Weisser was a troubadour in every sense—offering a platform …
Mister Roberts - Mister Roberts: A Life Composed with Passion and Poetry Mark Robert Marshall, known to many as Mister Roberts, graced the world with his presence on August 5th, 1963, in the vibrant city of Ogden, Utah. However, destiny soon led his family to Phoenix, Arizona, where Mark’s roots would firmly take hold and shape his remarkable …
Myrlin Hepworth - Myrlin Hepworth: Poet, Educator, and Hip-Hop Artist Listen to Myrlin on Soundcloud Myrlin Hepworth is a dynamic force in the world of poetry, blending spoken word, education, and hip-hop into a seamless art form that resonates across generations and cultures. As a poet, teaching artist, and performer, Myrlin has dedicated his career to empowering youth …
Natalie Diaz - Natalie Diaz: Poet, Language Advocate, and Cultural Ambassador Natalie Diaz, born on September 4, 1978, in the Fort Mojave Indian Village in Needles, California, is a celebrated Mojave-American poet whose work delves into identity, language, love, and the complex intersections of Indigenous culture and contemporary American life. An enrolled member of the Gila River Indian …
Nick Fox - Nick Fox: Founder, Performer, and “The Voice of God” in Slam Poetry Nick Fox is a celebrated poet, performer, educator, and a pivotal figure in the American slam poetry movement. As the founder of the Flagstaff Poetry Slam and an early competitor in Arizona’s burgeoning poetry slam scene, Fox helped shape the vibrant spoken word …
Ragan Fox - Born in Houston, Ragan Fox is a multifaceted artist and academic who has left an indelible mark on the realms of poetry, performance, and communication studies. Armed with a BS and MA from the University of Texas at Austin and a PhD in Communication from Arizona State University, Fox is the creative force behind poetry …
Richard Shelton - Richard Shelton: A Legacy of Poetry, Prose, and Prison Reform Richard Shelton (June 24, 1933 – November 29, 2022) was an acclaimed American writer, poet, and educator who left an indelible mark on the literary landscape and prison reform through his work. As an emeritus Regents Professor of English at the University of Arizona, Shelton’s …
Roanna Shebala - Roanna Shebala: Illuminating the Voices of the Navajo and Zuni Tribes Roanna “Rowie” Shebala is a distinguished Native American poet, spoken word artist, and storyteller of the Dine (Navajo Tribe) and Shiwi (Zuni Tribe). Born into the Tsenjikini clan and raised in Fort Defiance, Arizona, Shebala’s work reflects her rich cultural heritage and deep connection …
Robert FlipSide Daniels - Robert ‘FlipSide’ Daniels: A Multifaceted Artistic Journey Meet Robert Daniels, a multifaceted artist known professionally as FlipSide. Throughout his career, he has donned the roles of a journalist, a playwright, a poet, and an author. Hailing from Southern California, Daniels’s artistic journey is marked by diverse experiences and a relentless pursuit of creative expression. Early …
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 …
Ruth Walgreen Stephan - Ruth Stephan: Poet, Philanthropist, and Founder of the University of Arizona Poetry Center Ruth Stephan (1910–1974), the only daughter of Charles R. Walgreen, the founder of the Walgreens drugstore chain, was much more than the heiress to a business empire. She was a distinguished poet, novelist, publisher, record and film producer, and a passionate advocate …
Ryan Brown - Ryan Brown: A Journey of Poetry and Community Ryan Brown’s poetic journey began in 2007 when he discovered Flagstaff’s FlagSlam, a vibrant poetry community that ignited his passion for spoken word. Brown, alongside a small group of like-minded young people, began writing poetry, eventually stepping into the role of Slammaster in the fall of 2008. …
Sara Teasdale - Sara Teasdale: A Lyrical Journey through Beauty, Love, and Loss Sara Teasdale: A Lyrical Journey through Beauty, Love, and Loss Sara Teasdale, born into privilege in St. Louis, Missouri, emerged as a prominent figure in the early 20th-century American poetry scene. As a young woman, she ventured to Chicago, where she connected with literary luminaries …
Sarge Lintecum - Introducing Sarge Lintecum: a remarkable individual whose journey from the battlefields of Vietnam to the stages of blues clubs and concert venues is nothing short of extraordinary. Sarge, a highly decorated combat veteran with three tours in Vietnam, discovered solace in writing about the unspoken traumas of war after two decades of living in near-seclusion. …
Sharlot Madbridth Hall - Sharlot Madbridth Hall: Pioneer Poet and Chronicler of the American Southwest Sharlot Mabridth Hall (October 27, 1870 – April 9, 1943) was an American poet, historian, and pioneering woman whose works and efforts have left an indelible mark on the cultural and historical landscape of Arizona and the American Southwest. Born in Lincoln County, Kansas, …
Shawnte Orion - Shawnte Orion: Arizona’s Poet of Modern Absurdity and Elegance Shawnte Orion is a contemporary Arizona poet whose work deftly navigates the absurdities of modern life, extracting nuggets of philosophy, religion, and mathematics to craft a unique blend of elegies and celebrations. Through his poetry, Orion examines the nuances of mortality, time, and human experience, often …
Sherwin Bitsui - Sherwin Bitsui: A Poetic Voice from the Navajo Nation Sherwin Bitsui is a distinguished poet whose work offers a powerful exploration of identity, landscape, and the interconnectedness of nature and culture. Born in 1974 in White Cone, Arizona, on the Navajo Reservation, Bitsui’s poetry is deeply rooted in his Navajo heritage and the stark, beautiful …
The Klute - The Klute: Unleashing the Power of Words for Sharks and Humanity Born along the captivating shores of Palm Beach, Florida, The Klute emerged with a deep affinity for the enigmatic creatures that dwell beneath the ocean’s surface. Nurturing a profound love for sharks, he became an advocate for their preservation, employing the medium of spoken …
Thomas Cooper - Thomas Cooper has performed poetry around the Valley of the Sun since 2018 and regularly hosts Ghost Poetry Show and the All-Arizona Maricopa Slam. Cooper has published collections, his most recent being “Revenge of the Snowflakes,” and competed with teams at regional poetry competitions. Discover and learn more about poets and poetry from Arizona HERE.
Tomas Stanton - Tomas Stanton: A Poet, Teaching Artist, and Advocate for Youth Empowerment Tomas Stanton is a multifaceted individual who has made a profound impact through his artistry, teaching, and community activism. As a poet, writer, and teaching artist, he has dedicated himself to advancing the arts of spoken word and Hip Hop, using them as transformative …
Tristan Marshell - Tristan Marshell: A Versatile Voice in Arizona’s Poetry Scene Tristan Marshell has been a significant presence in the poetry world since 1976, and has been actively involved in slam poetry and performance poetry since 2004. A resident of Arizona, Marshell’s multifaceted career spans roles as a sailor, soldier, center fielder, teacher, and artist across several …
Valence - Valence: Arizona-Based Performance Poet and New Media Artist Tyler “Valence” Sirvinskas, known professionally as Valence, is a performance poet, new media artist, and visionary creative based in Arizona. Blending spoken word poetry, performance art, electronic music, and visual art, Valence has become a unique figure in the contemporary poetry and art scene. His interdisciplinary approach …
William S. Burroughs - William S. Burroughs: Literary Icon and Cultural Provocateur William S. Burroughs (1914–1997) was a groundbreaking writer, cultural critic, and one of the most influential figures of the Beat Generation. Best known for his novel “Naked Lunch“ and his innovative use of the cut-up technique, Burroughs’ work explored themes of identity, addiction, control, and societal oppression. …
Wisdom Soul - Wisdom Soul: The Voice of Positivity and Healing From the tender age of 9, Serena Richardson, known in the poetic realm as ‘Wisdom Soul,’ embarked on a remarkable journey of self-expression through the written word. Her poetic odyssey began in 1997 when she graced the stage with her profound verses, earning her the moniker “Diva” …
Zane Grey - Zane Grey: A Western Novelist’s Legacy in Arizona and Poetry Zane Grey, one of the most celebrated Western novelists of the 20th century, left an indelible mark not only on American literature but also on the culture of Arizona and the genre of cowboy poetry. Best known for his gripping tales of the untamed West, …
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