Today, I began reading Bluff: Poems by Danez Smith, which was selected as one of The New York Times 100 Notable Books of 2024. This collection emerged after two years of artistic silence, during which the world slowed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and Minneapolis became the epicenter of protests following the murder of George Floyd. In Bluff, Danez Smith powerfully reflects on their role and responsibilities as a poet and their connection to their hometown of the Twin Cities.

Falling in Love Saved My Life
Lonely Planet Is A Play About Navigating Our Way Through Challenging Times
I enjoyed attending a captivating “Lonely Planet” performance this past Sunday at Luna Stage in West Orange. Directed by the talented Melissa Firlit, the play featured a stunningly crafted map store, thanks to the ingenious scenic designer Lucas Pinner. Seated in the front row alongside my friend Arnold, we were utterly engrossed in this touching narrative about navigating life’s challenges, specifically the AIDS pandemic.
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