In 'An American Sunrise,' Joy Harjo Speaks With A Timeless Compassion
The poet laureate's collection tells a tale of a fierce and ongoing fight for sovereignty, integrity, and basic humanity. It's a plea that Americans take responsibility for what's done in our names.
There is occasional confusion about the nature of the United States poet laureateship: The selection of laureate has nothing to do with the president.
The poet is selected by the Librarian of Congress, meaning the laureate works for a completely different branch of the government. This is a smart and useful separation of powers: An advocate of free speech and education should not be beholden
