Tag: Flagstaff

Discover Flagstaff by slam poets, cowboy poets, and literary giants inspired by the state of Arizona on AZpoetry.com!

Mary Sojourner poet | AZpoetry.com

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 relationship between people and the natural world. Through her extensive body of work, Sojourner has become one of the most distinctive literary voices in Arizona.


Early Life and Education

Born in 1940 in upstate New York, Mary Sojourner displayed an early love for storytelling and literature. Immersing herself in books throughout her childhood, she cultivated a profound understanding of the written word, which later became the foundation of her literary career. Her upbringing amidst nature and community issues shaped her artistic vision, which she brought with her when she relocated to the Southwest in search of inspiration and solitude.


Relocation to Arizona and the Influence of the Southwest

In 1985, Sojourner moved to Arizona, where the expansive deserts and rugged beauty of the Southwest transformed her writing. The region’s landscapes became a defining characteristic of her work, providing both the backdrop and thematic richness for her storytelling. From the Mojave Desert to the mountains of Northern Arizona, the Southwest plays a central role in her exploration of human struggles, environmental degradation, and the enduring beauty of nature.


Literary Contributions: Novels, Memoirs, and Essays

Mary Sojourner’s literary works span novels, short story collections, essays, and memoirs, with each piece demonstrating her mastery of storytelling and her commitment to environmental and social justice. Her notable works include:

  • Sisters of the Dream – This novel examines the complexities of female relationships and personal growth.
  • Going Through Ghosts – A story about memory, loss, and reconciling the past.
  • 29 – A novel that received critical acclaim, including a starred review in Booklist.

Her short story collection, “Delicate,” highlights her ability to capture emotional depth and intricate character studies. Sojourner’s essay collection, “Bonelight: Ruin and Grace in the New Southwest,” delves into the environmental and cultural shifts in the region, blending personal narrative with broader social commentary.

Her memoirs also hold a special place in her body of work:

  • “Solace: Rituals of Loss and Desire” – A reflective exploration of grief and healing.
  • “She Bets Her Life” – A thought-provoking narrative intertwining personal anecdotes with larger discussions about risk, chance, and human resilience.

Through these works, Sojourner has become a voice for the Southwest, capturing both its natural beauty and the challenges faced by its people.


Teaching and Mentorship

In addition to her writing, Sojourner has been an influential mentor to aspiring writers. In 2007, she served as a Distinguished Writer in Residence at Arizona State University’s Virginia G. Piper Creative Writing Center, where she guided students in honing their craft and exploring their creative voices.

Sojourner also leads workshops, residencies, and writing contests that engage local communities in the art of storytelling. She hosted a monthly writing contest in the Arizona Daily Sun, inviting amateur writers to submit creative pieces inspired by specific themes, further fostering Arizona’s literary culture.


NPR Commentary and Media Presence

Mary Sojourner’s thought leadership extends into media, where she has been a national and local NPR commentator since 1999. Her reflections on environmental issues, social justice, and the human experience have resonated with listeners nationwide. She has also reviewed Southwestern-themed books for KNAU, Arizona’s NPR affiliate, offering her perspective on works that delve into the spirit of the region.


Advocacy for Environmental and Social Justice

A lifelong advocate for environmental conservation and social justice, Sojourner uses her platform to highlight pressing issues such as climate change, resource depletion, and inequality. Her activism began in the 1970s in New York, where she fought for women’s mental health rights, and continues in the Southwest, where she raises awareness about the challenges facing marginalized communities and the environment.


Legacy and Influence

Mary Sojourner’s work is a testament to the power of storytelling to inspire change and foster connection. Whether writing about human relationships, environmental conservation, or the unique struggles of life in the Southwest, Sojourner’s voice remains deeply relevant. Her ability to capture the essence of place and person has earned her a lasting place in Arizona’s literary heritage.

For those seeking profound reflections on life, nature, and the human condition, Mary Sojourner’s writing offers a window into the soul of the Southwest. Explore her works to experience the beauty and complexity of her stories.


For more information on Mary Sojourner and her contributions to Arizona poetry and literature, visit AZpoetry.com.

Discover more poets and writers from Arizona HERE.

Katherine Larson poet | AZpoetry.com

Katherine Larson

Katherine Larson: Scientist, Poet, and Voice of the Natural World

Katherine Larson is a celebrated American poet, molecular biologist, and field ecologist whose unique blend of scientific insight and lyrical artistry captures the delicate interplay between nature and human experience. As the 2010 winner of the prestigious Yale Series of Younger Poets Competition and the author of the acclaimed collection Radial Symmetry (Yale University Press, 2011), Larson’s work has resonated with readers and critics alike, establishing her as one of Arizona’s most compelling contemporary voices.


Early Life and Educational Roots

Born into a family that valued both education and the natural world, Katherine Larson’s early experiences laid a strong foundation for her dual passions. Her father, a professor of forestry and environmental science, and her mother, a dedicated fourth-grade teacher with a passion for science, instilled in her an early love for learning and the environment. Growing up with these influences, Larson developed a curiosity about the world that would later become the cornerstone of her poetry and scientific research.

After graduating from Flagstaff High School in 1996, Larson pursued higher education at the University of Arizona, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing and English. This unique combination of studies allowed her to bridge the gap between the analytical world of science and the expressive realm of literature. Her academic journey continued as she earned an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Virginia, where she was recognized as a Henry Hoyns Fellow—a testament to her emerging talent and dedication to her craft.


The Emergence of a Poetic Voice

Larson’s poetry is characterized by its keen observations of the natural world and its exploration of the human condition through the lens of science. Her work has been featured in numerous anthologies and respected literary journals, including AGNI, Poetry, Boulevard, The Kenyon Review, The Massachusetts Review, Notre Dame Review, and Poetry Northwest. Influenced by literary giants such as Marianne Moore, Elizabeth Bishop, Pablo Neruda, and Tomas Tranströmer—as well as by Irish poets Medbh McGuckian, Ciaran Carson, and Seamus Heaney during a formative semester in Ireland—Larson’s verses seamlessly blend scientific precision with lyrical beauty.

Her acclaimed poetry collection, Radial Symmetry, reflects this synthesis. Praised for its “extraordinary wakefulness” and its immersive, nuanced portrayal of the natural world, the collection invites readers to experience nature not as a distant, abstract force but as a tangible, ever-present influence on everyday life. Reviews in The Independent and The Paris Review have lauded Larson for her ability to transform the natural environment into a living, breathing narrative that speaks to both our sensory experiences and our inner lives.


Interdisciplinary Projects and Collaborations

Katherine Larson’s commitment to exploring the intersection of nature and art extends beyond the page. In 2009, she collaborated with artist Heather Green on The Ghost Net Project at the University of Arizona’s Poetry Center. This innovative project involved the creation of 25 shadow boxes constructed from salvaged shrimp-boat wood, each paired with a poem by Larson. The installation examined cultural and ecological relationships in the Gulf of California—a region where Larson had spent six months living and working. The project not only highlighted her creative vision but also underscored her dedication to environmental advocacy and cultural dialogue.


A Life Bridging Science and Art

Balancing her career as a research scientist in molecular biology with her poetic pursuits, Larson embodies the rare synthesis of scientific inquiry and artistic expression. Her work in the lab informs her poetry, providing a meticulous attention to detail and a profound understanding of natural processes. In turn, her writing brings a poetic sensibility to her scientific endeavors, allowing her to communicate complex ideas with clarity and beauty.

Living in Tucson, Arizona with her husband and daughter, Larson remains deeply connected to the landscapes that have inspired her work. Her poetry not only reflects the physical beauty of the Southwest but also serves as a meditation on the intricate relationships between human beings and the environment. Through her writing, she encourages readers to look more closely at the world around them, to appreciate the interplay between nature and culture, and to find meaning in the rhythms of the natural world.


Awards, Honors, and Continuing Influence

Katherine Larson’s work has garnered numerous accolades over the years. In 2010, she was selected by esteemed poet Louise Glück as the winner of the Yale Series of Younger Poets Competition—a recognition that marked a significant milestone in her career. Her collection Radial Symmetry went on to win the Kate Tufts Discovery Award in 2012, along with the Levis Reading Prize from Virginia Commonwealth University and the ForeWord Magazine Gold Medal Prize in the Poetry Category. These honors reflect her talent and the broad appeal of her work.

Larson’s influence extends far beyond her published collections. Through her teaching, public readings, and active participation in literary communities, she continues to inspire emerging poets and artists, encouraging them to embrace the natural world as a source of endless creativity.

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.

Listen to Aaron Hopkins-Johnson on Spotify

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Uncle Don Fanning | AZpoetry.com

Uncle Don Fanning

Uncle Don Fanning: Flagstaff Poet, Storyteller, and Community Catalyst

Uncle Don B. Fireland Fanning is a beloved and influential poet from Flagstaff, Arizona, whose work has resonated through decades of heartfelt expression and creative activism. Since penning his first poem in 1973, Fanning has built a legacy defined by his vivid storytelling, fearless social commentary, and a unique blend of personal and political insights. His poetry finds sacred space within the profane, transforming everyday struggles and triumphs into lyrical narratives that both challenge and inspire.


A Lifelong Journey in Poetry

Growing up in Flagstaff, Uncle Don absorbed the rugged beauty of northern Arizona and the rich cultural tapestry of the local community. From his early days, he demonstrated a remarkable ability to capture the complexities of life through his words. Over the years, his poetry has evolved into a powerful convergence of personal experience and political reflection—imbued with fantasy, humor, and a deep love for the land and its people.


Community-Building and Creative Workshops

A true champion of community-driven creativity, Uncle Don has dedicated himself to fostering artistic expression among local writers. Alongside his wife, Chaparral Fireland, he co-hosts creative writing workshops that emphasize collaborative storytelling and the sharing of diverse voices. These workshops serve as nurturing spaces where aspiring poets can explore their own creativity, learn from one another, and develop their unique voices. For Uncle Don, poetry is not only a form of personal expression but also a tool to build stronger, more resilient communities.


Stickering to His Beliefs

One of the most innovative aspects of Fanning’s activism is his use of stickers as an extension of his art. As detailed in the Arizona Daily Sun’s feature “Stickering to His Beliefs,” Uncle Don took to the streets of Flagstaff to distribute stickers bearing his messages of social change, environmental stewardship, and honest self-expression. These stickers, often seen on telephone poles, walls, and community bulletin boards, became a visual signature of his commitment to making art accessible and sparking dialogue in unexpected places. His bold, unapologetic approach to activism through these simple yet powerful messages continues to inspire those who encounter them.


The Convergence of Personal and Political

At the heart of Uncle Don’s poetry is a seamless blend of the personal and the political. His work delves into themes of love, loss, and human resilience while offering incisive commentary on the challenges facing modern society. Whether he’s addressing the nuances of a personal struggle or critiquing broader social issues, his verses resonate with a raw honesty that invites readers to reflect on their own experiences. Through his poetry, he challenges the status quo and celebrates the strength found in vulnerability and communal support.


A Citizen of the World with Deep Local Roots

While deeply rooted in Flagstaff, Uncle Don sees himself as a citizen of both the United States and the world. His work is infused with a global consciousness that enriches his local perspective. His enduring love for his community—despite its many contradictions and challenges—has made him a beacon of inspiration for both emerging and established poets. His ability to listen to those who need to be heard and to fight for those who need a voice defines his legacy as a storyteller and advocate for change.


Legacy and Lasting Impact

Uncle Don B. Fireland Fanning’s creative journey spans over four decades, leaving a lasting impact on Flagstaff’s literary community and beyond. His poetry has become a testament to the power of the spoken word to foster connection, challenge societal norms, and celebrate life’s multifaceted nature. Through his workshops, his poetry, and his innovative use of stickers, Fanning has empowered countless individuals to embrace their creativity and share their stories with the world.

His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who continue to be inspired by his work, and his influence remains a vital part of Arizona’s cultural heritage. For anyone seeking to explore the transformative power of poetry and the art of community activism, Uncle Don’s work offers a profound and enduring message of resilience, authenticity, and hope.


To learn more about the life, work, and lasting impact of Arizona’s poets, peruse this page HERE.

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.

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Dom Flemons songwriter poet | Azpoetry.com

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 evolution from a prominent slam poet in Flagstaff to a Grammy-winning roots musician is a testament to his dynamic talent and dedication to storytelling through both words and music.


Early Life in Arizona and Musical Beginnings

Growing up in Phoenix, Flemons was captivated by diverse musical traditions, from folk to blues, which laid the foundation for his future as an acclaimed musician. During this time, he also began exploring poetry and storytelling as a means of creative expression. Early on, Flemons performed in coffee houses and small venues across Arizona, building a reputation for his engaging performances and passion for traditional American music.

Flemons became a prolific figure in Arizona’s creative circles, producing 25 albums featuring local singer-songwriters and poets, including six of his own projects. These early experiences helped shape his artistic vision and introduced him to the vibrant cultural traditions of the Southwest.


Slam Poetry Days in Flagstaff

Flemons attended Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff, where he earned a degree in English. His academic focus encompassed creative writing, Latin, Greco-Roman literature, Shakespeare, and poetry, further enriching his artistic palette. During his time at NAU, Flemons immersed himself in the dynamic slam poetry scene, which was flourishing in Flagstaff.

As a slam poet, Flemons collaborated and competed with some of Arizona’s most notable poets, including Aaron Hopkins-Johnson, The Klute, Logan Phillips, John Kofonow, and Suzy Lafollette. In 2002, Flemons represented Flagstaff at the National Poetry Slam in Minneapolis as part of the city’s slam poetry team, finishing 35th out of 56 teams. His performances were known for their sharp wit, rhythm, and powerful storytelling, reflecting his ability to blend poetic expression with performance art.


Transition to Music and National Success

After making his mark in slam poetry, Flemons returned to his first love: music. His passion for preserving and performing traditional American roots music led him to co-found the Carolina Chocolate Drops, a Grammy-winning group dedicated to reviving African American string band traditions. The band’s groundbreaking album, “Genuine Negro Jig,” won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album in 2010.

As a solo artist, Flemons has continued to celebrate and innovate within the folk music genre. His critically acclaimed album Black Cowboys (2018) was a Grammy Award nominee for Best Folk Album and earned a Blues Music Award nomination in the Acoustic Album category. The album sheds light on the often-overlooked contributions of African Americans to the history of the American West, blending music, poetry, and storytelling to create a vivid narrative.


Legacy in Arizona and Beyond

Dom Flemons’ artistic journey from the slam poetry stages of Flagstaff to international acclaim as a Grammy-winning musician highlights his unparalleled versatility and commitment to storytelling. His early years in Arizona’s poetry and performance communities played a pivotal role in shaping his creative voice, and he continues to inspire artists and audiences with his dedication to preserving America’s cultural heritage.

Flemons’ work, whether through poetry or music, reflects his deep appreciation for history, identity, and the power of words to connect people. From his time as a slam poet in Flagstaff to his groundbreaking contributions to American roots music, Dom Flemons remains a treasured figure in Arizona’s artistic legacy.


For more about Dom Flemons and his creative journey, visit his official website at The American Songster.

Discover more poets and writers from Arizona HERE.

Valence | AZpoetry.com

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 brings together different media to craft performances that captivate and engage audiences on multiple sensory levels.

Early Life and Background

Born and raised in Chicago, Valence grew up as part of the last generation to experience life before the rise of the internet and digital technology. This sense of nostalgia for the pre-digital era informs much of his artistic perspective, and he is known for his strong advocacy of finding moments disconnected from technology. His work often reflects a deep appreciation for real, human connection that transcends the screens of smartphones and the noise of constant connectivity.

Poetry Slam and Performance Career

Valence’s journey into the world of performance poetry began in 2011 when he started competing in poetry slams, quickly making a name for himself within Arizona’s poetry scene. That same year, he represented Flagstaff at the prestigious National Poetry Slam, showcasing his talent and establishing his place among Arizona’s spoken word performers.

In 2012, Valence’s performance career hit another milestone when he won the Sedona Grand Slam, earning him a spot on Sedona’s National Slam Team. His work combines powerful spoken word with an avant-garde performance style, often exploring themes of technology, human connection, and the evolving relationship between people and their environments.

Artistry and New Media Work

Beyond poetry, Valence is an accomplished new media artist, incorporating electronic music, visual art, and performance art into his creative portfolio. His performances are often an amalgamation of these forms, pushing the boundaries of traditional spoken word by layering sound, visuals, and performance to create immersive artistic experiences.

Valence’s work examines the tension between old and new, often delving into themes that question the role of technology in our lives, and the impact it has on our relationships and self-awareness. His artistic vision encourages audiences to reflect on their interactions with technology and to seek moments of clarity and connection beyond the digital sphere.

Recent Work and Future Projects

In 2024, Valence self-published a small collection of poetry titled Save It For The Angels. The collection reflects his deep engagement with themes of spirituality, existential questioning, and the influence of technology on modern life. The work received positive reception in the Arizona poetry community for its innovative blend of traditional poetry with contemporary issues.

Looking ahead, Valence has plans to further expand his creative output by launching a fashion line, which will fuse his visual artistry with wearable designs, and continue to push his interdisciplinary vision forward. His artistic goals aim to connect different mediums, creating a holistic expression of his ideas across multiple forms of media.

Impact and Influence

Valence’s contributions to the Arizona poetry scene have helped bridge the gap between traditional poetry and more experimental forms of performance art. He has become known for his ability to blend poetry with new media, making his performances and written works resonate across different audiences. His advocacy for unplugging from technology and creating authentic, real-world connections stands as a central theme in his work, positioning him as both a poet and a cultural commentator.

Through his continued work in poetry, art, and performance, Valence represents a new generation of artists who are unafraid to explore the complexities of modern life, while still holding onto the importance of analog moments and human connection.

Discover more poets of Arizona HERE.