Gwendolyn Brooks’s life and work asserted the humanity of black people in America.

A new biography tells how the poet formed a taste for ambiguity and indirection.

Adam Bradley's new book makes a rare, convincing argument for the close reading of pop music.

The poet was reserved and private in an age of confession. Now, a new biography tries to reveal her secrets.

Kevin Coval's new collection creates community through history.

When we assess the reputation of a great man, can we still prioritize the work over the life?

How Stéphane Mallarmé's greatest work was forged from tragedy.

On the pleasures of poetry that deliberately defies our comprehension.

An interview with the poet Max Ritvo about illness, improvisation, and his first book, published posthumously next week.

When Crosby was paralyzed by an accident, both she and her friend Maggie Nelson reckoned with it in their writing.