Frank O’Hara

Date of Birth: March 27, 1926

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: July 25, 1966

Biography

Frank O’Hara was an influential American poet known for his pivotal role in the New York School of poetry. Born in Baltimore, Maryland, O’Hara later moved to Grafton, Massachusetts, where he spent his formative years. He attended Harvard University, where he initially studied music but later switched to English. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, O’Hara continued his education at the University of Michigan, earning an M.A. in English literature. O’Hara moved to New York City in 1951, where he became deeply embedded in the city’s vibrant art and literary scene. He worked at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) as an associate curator, which allowed him to interact with prominent artists such as Willem de Kooning and Jackson Pollock. His poetry is known for its spontaneous, conversational style and its reflection of urban life. O’Hara’s notable works include “Lunch Poems” and “Meditations in an Emergency.” Tragically, O’Hara’s life was cut short when he died in a car accident in 1966. Despite his untimely death, his influence on contemporary poetry and his contributions to the arts continue to be celebrated.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank O’Hara

1. Frank O’Hara was a central figure in the New York School of poetry.

2. He worked as an associate curator at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

3. O’Hara’s poetry often featured spontaneous, conversational tones and themes of urban life.

4. He had a close friendship with notable artists like Willem de Kooning and Jackson Pollock.

5. O’Hara’s book “Lunch Poems” was written during his lunch breaks at MoMA.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank O’Hara

1. “In times of crisis, we must all decide again and again whom we love.”

2. “Grace to be born and live as variously as possible.”

3. “I can’t even enjoy a blade of grass unless I know there’s a subway handy, or a record store or some other sign that people do not totally regret life.”

4. “I’m not saying that I have any answers, just that there are questions.”

5. “It’s easy to be beautiful; it’s difficult to appear so.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Frank O’Hara’s net worth was not well-documented, as he was more celebrated for his artistic contributions than his financial success. However, his influence and legacy in the world of poetry and the arts have been invaluable.