Reed Whittemore, American poet and critic (b. 1919)

Edward Reed Whittemore, Jr., born on September 11, 1919, and passing away on April 6, 2012, was a highly respected figure in American literature, known for his diverse contributions across several fields. He distinguished himself not only as an American poet but also as a meticulous biographer, an astute critic, an insightful literary journalist, and a dedicated college professor. Whittemore’s remarkable career was uniquely capped by his rare distinction of being appointed the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress on two separate occasions.

A Versatile Career in American Letters

Throughout his extensive life, which spanned over nine decades, Edward Whittemore cultivated a profound engagement with the written word. As a poet, his work often showcased a thoughtful and accessible style, exploring themes of history, human experience, and contemporary society with a keen eye for detail and a resonant voice. Beyond his own creative endeavors, Whittemore actively contributed to the literary world through other significant roles. As a biographer, he delved into the lives of other literary figures, bringing their stories and impacts to a broader audience. His work as a literary critic and journalist saw him contribute numerous articles and reviews, offering valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of American literature and shaping intellectual discourse. Furthermore, his commitment to education was evident in his long and influential tenure as a college professor, where he mentored countless students and shared his deep passion for language and literature, fostering critical thinking and creative expression.

The Dual Honor of Poet Laureate

Among his many accomplishments, Whittemore’s appointment as the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress stands out, particularly because he held the prestigious position twice. This role, established within the Library of Congress, serves to raise national awareness and appreciation for poetry. The Poet Laureate typically advises the Library on literary matters, curates poetry programs, and acts as a national spokesperson for the art form, often undertaking public readings and lectures across the country. Edward Whittemore first received this esteemed appointment as the sixteenth Poet Laureate in 1964, a significant recognition of his contributions to American poetry. Demonstrating the enduring regard for his literary stature and his continued influence, he was once again chosen for the role two decades later, serving as the twenty-eighth Poet Laureate in 1984. This rare dual appointment underscores his consistent presence and profound impact on the American literary scene over a considerable period, solidifying his legacy as a cherished and authoritative voice in poetry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edward Reed Whittemore, Jr.

When was Edward Reed Whittemore, Jr. born and when did he pass away?
He was born on September 11, 1919, and passed away on April 6, 2012.
What were his primary professions and contributions?
Edward Whittemore was an American poet, biographer, critic, literary journalist, and college professor. He made significant contributions across all these fields.
How many times was he appointed Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress?
Uniquely, he was appointed twice to this prestigious role.
In which years did he serve as Poet Laureate?
He served as the sixteenth Poet Laureate in 1964 and later as the twenty-eighth Poet Laureate in 1984.
What is the role of the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry?
The Poet Laureate promotes poetry and literature across the United States, advises the Library of Congress on literary matters, and typically organizes public readings and programs to foster appreciation for poetry.