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, art critic, and a leading figure in the New York School of poetry. Born on March 27, 1926, in Baltimore, Maryland, O’Hara grew up in Grafton, Massachusetts. He attended Harvard University, where he majored in music before switching to English. After serving in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he completed his education with a degree from Harvard and later earned a Master’s degree from the University of Michigan. O’Hara moved to New York City in 1951, where he became deeply involved in the vibrant arts scene. He worked at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) as a curator, which allowed him to blend his love for art with his poetic endeavors. Known for his spontaneous and conversational style, O’Hara’s poetry captures the energy and diversity of urban life. His notable works include collections such as “Lunch Poems” and “Meditations in an Emergency.” Tragically, O’Hara’s life was cut short when he died in a car accident on Fire Island, New York, on July 25, 1966. Despite his early death, O’Hara’s work continues to inspire and influence poets and artists worldwide.

5 Interesting Facts about Frank O’Hara

1. Frank O’Hara served in the U.S. Navy during World War II before pursuing a career in poetry and art.

2. He was an assistant curator at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

3. O’Hara’s poetry is often associated with the “New York School” of poets, which includes John Ashbery and Kenneth Koch.

4. His book “Lunch Poems” is one of his most famous works, written during his lunch breaks while working at MoMA.

5. O’Hara was also known for his friendships with prominent artists such as Jackson Pollock and Willem de Kooning.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Frank O’Hara

1. “In dreams you can never be aggressive, you can never be strong.”

2. “I’m not a painter, I’m a poet. Why? I think I’d rather be a painter, but I am not.”

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

4. “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.”

5. “What is more beautiful than night and someone in your arms that you love?”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Frank O’Hara’s highest net worth is not well-documented, but as a poet and curator, he was not known for substantial financial wealth. His true legacy lies in his artistic contributions.