Amiri Baraka

Christopher Benincasa speaks with poet Amiri Baraka on his birthday. Which also happened to be the kick-off date of this year's Geraldine R. Dodge Poetry Festival. Which just happened to be taking place in his hometown - Newark. At the age of 76, Baraka has a long history of activism and controversy coupled with a vast catalogue of artistic output, and many awards to show for it. Being the first poet to hit the stage at the biggest poetry event in the country, just several blocks from his home, was a pretty nice birthday present.

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