Only Dreaming Sky: Poems

　　In this unique collection of new and previouslypublished work by San Francisco'sPoet Laureate Jack Hirschman, a lighter, humorous side of the award-winningpoet is revealed. Even in his most ardent political pieces, Hirschman's playfulside shines through ("New World Odor"). Known for his commitment to socialjustice, Hirschman often frames ordinary urban moments with extraordinaryclarity ("Folsom Prison Haiku"), gently guiding the reader to a new way ofseeing. Also included are acerbic reflections on the fall of Communism("Red-Baiter"), tender memorials for friends ("The Day Bobby Kaufman Died"),and melodious love poems ("A Woman's Darkness").

　　San Francisco Poet Laureate Jack Hirschman was born on December 13, 1933, in the Bronx, New York. He receivedhis BA from The City College of New York in 1955, and earned both his AM andPhD from Indiana University in 1957 and 1961. He has beenawarded the American Book Award Lifetime Achievement Award and the PENOakland-Josephine Miles National Literary Award. He is the author of numerousbooks and translations, including FrontLines (City Lights Publishers).