APPALACHIAN POETRY
My early influences and a good starting place.
These are the poets who have influenced my writing and are classics if one wished to study the poetry of the region. The photo is my home county.
Janes Still
James Still lived well into his 90's and wrote about life across several decades. A must read.
Danny Marion
Danny taught for many years at Carson Newman College in Jefferson City, Tennessee. He has influenced countless writers and students of Appalachian literature.
George Ella Lyon
Catalpa taught me the power of plain language and of the female voice.
Jim Wayne Miller
I count Jim Wayne among my mentors. He gave generously of his time and advice to many. The Brier Sermon is must reading.
Jesse Stuart
I first encountered Jesse Stuart's fiction when I was in high school. I laer read his poetry. He was one of the early "breakout" Appalachian writers to garner national acclaim. I am very proud tha the Jesse Stuart Foundation published by book!
Jo Carson
Jo is perhaps better known for drama and fiction. I felt like I knew every single person speaking in these poems! Another female voice worthy of a close listen.
Just a few of my early influences, there are many, many more!
Buy a book of poetry today! It won't hurt a bit.