Acclaimed poet and translator Arthur Sze has been named the United States Poet Laureate for 2025, succeeding Ada Limón. His appointment comes during a turbulent period for the Library of Congress following the controversial dismissal of its librarian under former President Donald Trump.
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What Happened
On Monday, the Library of Congress officially announced Arthur Sze as the new U.S. Poet Laureate. The 74-year-old poet, renowned for his contributions to both poetry and translation, will serve a one-year term beginning this fall. Sze’s appointment arrives amid significant institutional upheaval as the Library works to promote poetry and raise national awareness of literary arts.
Sze succeeds Ada Limón, who served a three-year term, and his appointment follows the controversial firing of Librarian Carla Hayden in May, which sparked political debates over the Library’s direction. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanches has been nominated as acting librarian, while the Library continues to operate under longtime officer Robert Randolph Newlane.
Who Is Arthur Sze?
Arthur Sze is an acclaimed poet and translator with a career spanning decades. Known for exploring the intersection of ancient Chinese poetry and contemporary American themes, Sze’s work reflects a rich cultural heritage. A native of New York and the son of Chinese immigrants, he has been recognized both for his original poetry and his translations, including the notable project Silk Dragon: Translation from Chinese.
A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, Sze has long emphasized translation as a vital part of understanding poetry, using it to bridge cultures and make poetry more accessible.
Career and Contributions
Sze has published 12 poetry collections, earning numerous awards including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Library of Congress in 2024. His work is celebrated for its formal innovation, spiritual depth, and exploration of human relationships.
As Poet Laureate, Sze aims to emphasize the role of translation in understanding poetry, encouraging audiences to engage with works across languages and cultural contexts. His initiatives are expected to make poetry more inclusive and widely appreciated.
Public and Social Media Reactions
Sze’s appointment has been widely celebrated by literary communities and fellow poets. Social media has been filled with tributes highlighting his dedication to bridging cultural divides through poetry. His focus on translation has been particularly welcomed as a means to make poetry more accessible and globally connected.
What Happens Next
Rob Casper, head of the Library’s Poetry and Literature Center, praised Sze’s innovative approach and predicted that he will bring “depth, insight, and creativity” to the role.
Sze has expressed his commitment to sharing his passion for translation and poetry with the public, aiming to make poetry more approachable and engaging during a period of significant institutional change.
Conclusion
Arthur Sze’s appointment as U.S. Poet Laureate not only honors his literary achievements but also underscores his dedication to making poetry accessible to all, particularly through translation. His tenure promises to inspire a deeper appreciation for poetry and cultural exchange across the nation.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.