The city's poet-in-chief is charged with promoting poetry and public awareness about the literary arts.
San Antonio was the first major city in Texas to officially designate a poet laureate, with the appointment of Dr. Carmen Tafolla in 2012. She was succeeded by Laurie Ann Guerrero and the position is currently held by Jenny Browne.
A new poet laureate is appointed every two years. Nominations are now open through January 12 for the 2018-2020 term.
Potential laureates are nominated by community members and reviewed by a selection panel of scholarly writers, who then recommend a new poet for the mayor to appoint into the position.
What is the significance of a poet laureate? How does poetry help to promote literacy, encourage artistic expression and preserve local culture?
Guests:
- Jenny Browne, current poet laureate for the City of San Antonio
- Sebastian Guajardo, special projects manager for the City of San Antonio's Department of Arts & Culture
"The Source" is a live-call in program airing Mondays through Thursdays from 12-1 p.m. During the live show, call 210-614-8980, email thesource@tpr.org or tweet at @TPRSource. Leave a voicemail with your questions and comments in advance by calling 210-615-8982.
