Peter Kane Dufault, American soldier, pilot, and poet (d. 2013)

Peter Kane Dufault (April 22, 1923 – April 20, 2013) was a distinguished American poet whose prolific career spanned nearly six decades, marking him as a significant voice in 20th and early 21st-century literature. Born in New Jersey, his journey into the world of letters began early and continued almost until his passing.

Early Life, Education, and Wartime Service

Dufault's formative years were spent in the vibrant New York metropolitan area, specifically in Mamaroneck, New York. He pursued higher education at the prestigious Harvard University, an experience that undoubtedly broadened his intellectual horizons. A pivotal chapter in his early life involved his service as a bomber pilot during World War II, a profound experience that shaped the worldview of many in his generation and likely influenced the themes and perspectives found in his poetic work.

A Life of Diverse Pursuits and Artistic Expression

Peter Kane Dufault was a truly multifaceted individual, with a professional life as varied as it was rich. Beyond his dedication to poetry, he held an array of fascinating jobs, working variously as a tree-surgeon, a journalist, a teacher, a house-painter, and even a pollster. This broad spectrum of experiences undoubtedly infused his writing with a unique understanding of human endeavors and the natural world.

His public engagement extended to the political arena; in 1968, reflecting the turbulent social climate of the Vietnam War era, he ran for Congress in Columbia County, New York, on the Liberal Party's anti-war platform, showcasing his commitment to peace and social justice.

Dufault's artistic talents were not confined solely to written verse. He was also a celebrated musician and community figure, widely known for his skill as a fiddler and banjo-player, and as an engaging dance-caller, connecting with audiences through the joy of traditional music and movement. His literary contributions were further recognized when he twice served as poet-in-residence at the renowned Cheltenham Festival, a prestigious international arts and literature event in England, underscoring his standing in the global poetic community.

Literary Acclaim and Recognition

Throughout his extensive career, Peter Kane Dufault's poetry garnered significant critical acclaim and appeared in numerous respected literary publications. His work found a home in esteemed magazines and journals such as The New Yorker, London Magazine, and Poetry, reaching a wide and discerning readership. A testament to the lasting impact and quality of his verse, his poetry was also prominently featured in the seminal 1996 Edition of the Norton Anthology of Poetry, a standard reference text for American literature students and enthusiasts.

From 1960 until his death, Dufault made his home and creative sanctuary in Hillsdale, New York, a picturesque town in the Taconic Hills of Columbia County. This tranquil setting became deeply intertwined with his mature creative output.

Documentary and Legacy

A significant milestone in the recognition of his life and artistic legacy occurred on June 4, 2010, with the world premiere of a documentary film about him. Titled What I Meant to Tell You: An American Poet’s State of the Union, the film offered an intimate look into Dufault's life and work, debuting at the Berkshire International Film Festival in Great Barrington, Massachusetts, and bringing his story to a broader audience.

Peter Kane Dufault passed away at his home in Hillsdale, New York, on April 20, 2013, just two days shy of his 90th birthday, leaving behind a profound body of work and a rich, multifaceted legacy that continues to resonate with readers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Peter Kane Dufault

Who was Peter Kane Dufault?

Peter Kane Dufault (1923-2013) was a distinguished American poet known for a prolific career spanning nearly six decades, marked by diverse life experiences and a distinctive poetic voice.

What were some notable aspects of his early life and career?

Born in New Jersey and raised in Mamaroneck, New York, Dufault graduated from Harvard University and served as a bomber pilot during World War II. These experiences significantly shaped his worldview and artistic output.

Beyond poetry, what other roles did he undertake?

Dufault was a man of many talents and professions, working as a tree-surgeon, journalist, teacher, house-painter, and pollster. He was also a skilled fiddler, banjo-player, and dance-caller, and even ran for Congress on an anti-war platform in 1968.

Where did Peter Kane Dufault live and create for most of his later life?

From 1960 until his death in 2013, Peter Kane Dufault resided and wrote in Hillsdale, New York, a location that became deeply associated with his mature creative period.

How was his poetry recognized?

His poems appeared in prestigious publications like The New Yorker, London Magazine, and Poetry. He also received significant academic recognition with the inclusion of his work in the 1996 Edition of the Norton Anthology of Poetry.

Was there a film made about Peter Kane Dufault?

Yes, a documentary film titled What I Meant to Tell You: An American Poet’s State of the Union premiered on June 4, 2010, at the Berkshire International Film Festival, celebrating his life and literary contributions.