North Carolina is home to poets both past and present worth your attention if you haven’t read them yet. We are taking a closer look at key poets in our state’s history and talking about why you need to check them out. Then, we’ll introduce some current big players in the state’s poetry scene and where you can find them when they’re not at their desks writing more verse for us to enjoy.

Dr. Amanda Bennett, the newly appointed Poet Laureate of Carrboro, NC, took the time to tell us about her work creating community with poetry. Her poetry centers themes of queer Black feminism and spirituality. We at Ink & Oak are honored she shared her insight with us and are excited to see how she combines poetry and community during her tenure.