Most of us remember you as Mentor—
the way you spread your wisdom everywhere,
always sensing where our poems were going,
and showing us how we could get them there.
We also thought of you as Storyteller,
with the powers of a Master Crafter—
surprising us with sudden clarity,
painful honesty, and even laughter.
But mostly we appreciate your poems
for all their possibilities, good will,
invention, empathy and love. Thank you
for what you gave us, and are giving still—
encouragement, and the validation
we’ve learned to call by name: your inspiration.
Marilyn L. Taylor
Wisconsin Poet Laureate, 2009/2010
