Two of the leading poetic voices of our time will join forces to deliver what is sure to be a reading for the ages. Without Chicagoan Patricia Smith, Slam Poetry wouldn’t be what it is today. A 2006 inductee to the International Literary Hall of Fame for Writers of African Descent, Smith is a staff instructor at Cave Canem, the groundbreaking retreat for African American writers. And Marilyn Nelson, a National Book Award finalist, is a multi-genre wonder who has garnered acclaim in both poetry and children’s literature.  Nelson is also a 2006 inductee to the International Literary Hall of Fame and has just concluded a five-year term as Poet Laureate of Connecticut.  Recorded as part of the 16th Annual Gwendolyn Brooks Writers’ Conference for Black Literature and Creative Writing.

Recorded Friday, October 27, 2006 at Chicago State University.