Date of Birth: June 11, 1948
Zodiac Sign: Gemini
Biography
David Lehman is a renowned American poet, editor, and literary critic known for his contributions to contemporary American poetry. Born in New York City, Lehman pursued his higher education at Columbia University, where he received his BA and PhD. He later attended the University of Cambridge on a Kellett Fellowship. His career encompasses a wide range of roles including teaching, writing, and editing. Lehman is best known for his work as the series editor of “The Best American Poetry” series, which he initiated in 1988. He has published numerous books of poetry, including “The Evening Sun,” “Valentine Place,” and “When a Woman Loves a Man.” He has also authored several works of literary criticism and edited key anthologies. Lehman’s style is characterized by its wit, formal inventiveness, and engagement with both high and popular culture.
5 Interesting Facts about David Lehman
1. David Lehman started the “Best American Poetry” series in 1988, which has become an influential annual anthology in the poetry world.
2. He was awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship in 1989 for his contributions to poetry.
3. Lehman has also written extensively about detective fiction and jazz, showcasing his diverse literary interests.
4. He has taught at several prestigious institutions including Columbia University and The New School, where he is a core faculty member.
5. Lehman edited the Oxford Book of American Poetry, an anthology that spans three centuries of American verse.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from David Lehman
1. “Poetry is a way of taking life by the throat.”
2. “The best poems are those that surprise us, that seem inevitable only after we have read them.”
3. “Poetry is the music of the soul, and, above all, of great and feeling souls.”
4. “A poem is never finished, only abandoned.”
5. “The poet’s job is to find a way to make the unbearable bearable.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
David Lehman’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
David Lehman has one child, a son named Adam Lehman, who has also shown an interest in the arts.
Relevant Links
1. [David Lehman on Poetry Foundation](https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/david-lehman
2. [David Lehman on The Best American Poetry](http://www.bestamericanpoetry.com/
5. [David Lehman’s Books on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/David-Lehman/e/B000AP7T0I