Arthur Sze Appointed to Second Term as U.S. Poet Laureate

Arthur Sze has been reappointed to a second one-year term as the U.S. poet laureate by the Library of Congress. This decision comes amidst a backdrop of institutional changes following the ousting of former Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden by President Donald Trump. Sze, a respected poet and translator, aims to promote poetry through his project “Words Bridging Worlds,” which will involve readings, discussions, and workshops across the country.

Library of Congress appoints Arthur Sze to a second 1-year term as US poet laureateUsNews and World Report

In a statement regarding his reappointment, Sze expressed enthusiasm for his project, stating, “I am excited to embark on taking my signature project, ‘Words Bridging Worlds,’ to multiple cities to celebrate poetry and poetry in translation.” This initiative encourages participants to engage with poetry by translating works from other languages into English, fostering a deeper appreciation for the art form.

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Sze, who began his first term in the fall of 2022, has navigated his role during a tumultuous period for the Library of Congress. Hayden's removal was part of Trump's broader efforts against what he termed “woke” culture within government institutions. Despite these upheavals, the Library of Congress has continued to host traditional events, including the National Book Festival, indicating a commitment to its cultural mission.

Library of Congress appoints Arthur Sze to a second 1-year term as US poet laureate

Robert Randolph Newlen, acting librarian, remarked on Sze's contributions, stating, “Arthur Sze is opening the world of poetry by giving us a unique view of his process of writing and translating poetry.” The role of poet laureate is traditionally apolitical, focusing on enhancing public appreciation for poetry.

Library of Congress appoints Arthur Sze to a second 1-year term as US poet laureateUsNews and World Report

Arthur Sze, 75, is known for his acclaimed poetry collections, including “Sight Lines,” which won the National Book Award, and “Compass Rose,” a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. His latest work, “Transient Worlds,” emphasizes the significance of poetry in translation and was published concurrently with his reappointment.

Library of Congress appoints Arthur Sze to a second 1-year term as US poet laureateUsNews and World Report

While Sze's appointment has been largely welcomed, the context of his tenure raises questions about the political environment surrounding the Library of Congress. Critics of Trump's administration have pointed to the firings and institutional changes as indicative of a broader trend of politicizing cultural institutions.

Library of Congress appoints Arthur Sze to a second 1-year term as US poet laureate

As Sze embarks on his second term, he is expected to travel extensively, promoting poetry and engaging with diverse audiences. His initiatives will likely continue to spark discussions about the role of poetry in bridging cultural divides and enhancing understanding through translation.

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• “I am excited to embark on taking my signature project, ‘Words Bridging Worlds,’ to multiple cities to celebrate poetry and poetry in translation, and where people can use the book to try translating poems from another language into English,” — Arthur Sze, U.S. Poet Laureate

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• “Arthur Sze is opening the world of poetry by giving us a unique view of his process of writing and translating poetry — and challenging students and the public to try writing and translating poetry as well,” — Robert Randolph Newlen, Acting Librarian of Congress

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