I’ve been teaching for over forty years, writing poetry for more than thirty. Earning a living has had to come before publishing creative work, which I’ve recently started submitting. I'm the Elizabeth Rosenthal Professor of American Literature, Environmental & Sustainability Studies, and Women's, Gender, & Sexuality Studies at UNC Greensboro. Recent publications include Who Killed American Poetry?: From National Obsession to Elite Possession (a deliberately provocative title). Many more books and other publications, including some poems. I grew up on a farm, and that history animates nearly everything I write.