Elizabeth Hazen Interviews Dean Smith, Author of Baltimore Sons
Elizabeth Hazen sits down with fellow Baltimore poet Dean Smith for the Baltimore Fishbowl
Introduction authored by Elizabeth Hazen for the Baltimore Fishbowl:
"Dean Bartoli Smith’s second poetry collection, Baltimore Sons, paints a brutally honest portrait of Charm City – a place bursting with personality and charm, but also marred by poverty and violence. In these poems, readers will find neighborhoods filled with vibrant people who, along with the city itself, have shaped the speaker’s perspective.
Smith’s poems range from snapshots of childhood pastimes and homages to iconic Baltimoreans to missives about gun violence and even poems from the weapons’ perspectives. Despite the grit and realism in his work, Smith never despairs, instead highlighting the humanity that ultimately redeems the city and its residents. According to Smith, 'No one really knows what to make of native Baltimoreans. The city remains a wildcard that’s hard to define,' but through these poems, Smith has certainly given us a powerful representation.
A Baltimore native with a background in reporting and a journalistic eye for detail, Smith has written a collection that is accessible, heartbreaking, and 'the most painful love letter I’ve ever written.'"
Grace Cavalieri Featured in New Article, “Making Sense of the World through Poetry”
Grace Cavalieri launches a new podcast in deeply uncertain times. The Bay Weekly covers her story in this short article.
Rose Solari Tackles Frost, Coste Lewis, and Imaginary Landscapes in New Rose Reads
Rose Solari’s style continues to evolve as she tackles more difficult poetic concepts. Hear her speak to poetry and song as “gifts,” detail Coleridge’s writing from a sick bed, remark on Frost’s famous “Directive”, and reminisce on Smokey Robinson in this new episode of Rose Reads.
Grace Cavalieri’s “The Poet and The Poem” Receives Grant From MD Humanities
MD Poet Laureate Grace Cavalieri recieves a grant from Maryland Humanities for her long-running radio program and podcast, The Poet and The Poem.