Celebrating poet William Stafford

A special guest at the reading will be Stafford's wife, Dorothy.

Join in sharing an original work, one of your favorite poems by William Stafford, or just to sit back and enjoy what Stafford would have called the "comfortable cordiality" of listening to area poets.

Stafford, Oregon's most famous poet, is remembered as a poet of peace and an observer of nature. The author of more than 50 books of poetry and essays, he was the recipient of many prestigious awards and honors including: the National Book Award for "Traveling Through the Dark" (1962); Poetry Consultant to the Library of Congress, 1970; and Poet Laureate of Oregon, 1975-1993 among other honors.

Stafford was a political activist and a conscientious objector, working in civilian public service camps during World War II. He later became a well loved professor at Lewis and Clark College in Portland.

In an online interview he explained, "I keep following this hidden river of my life...I inhale and exhale. I experience, write poems."

His other works include "Every War Has Two Losers," "Down in my Heart," "The Rescued Year" and many other volumes of poetry.

The afternoon event is co-sponsored by the Friends of the White Salmon Valley Community Library, and The Friends of William Stafford (FWS). Refreshments will be provided.

For more information call the library (509) 493-1132 or contact Joan Chantler at 493-1976.