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Library of Congress Research Guides

Joseph Brodsky, U.S. Poet Laureate: A Resource Guide

American poet Joseph Brodsky served as U.S. Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry from 1991-1992 at the Library of Congress. This guide provides access to selected print and online resources related to Brodsky’s life and work.

Introduction

U.S. Poet Laureate Joseph Brodsky. 1991-1992. Photo credit: Bengt Jangfeldt.

On May 10, 1991, Librarian of Congress James H. Billington appointed Joseph Brodsky (1940-1996) the fifth Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress. Brodsky moved to the United States in 1972 and became an American citizen after he was exiled from the Soviet Union.

Brodsky took up his duties in fall 1991, opening the Library's annual literary season on October 2nd with a lecture held in the Mumford Room.

Brodsky served one term as poet laureate, finishing his duties in spring 1992.

This guide provides an overview of print and online resources related to Joseph Brodsky's life and work. To suggest additions to this guide, please contact the Researcher and Reference Services Division.

Contact Information for Joseph Brodsky

If you have questions about Joseph Brodsky or his work, please direct your inquiries as suggested below:

  • Permissions Requests: Contact the publisher of the poem or work written by Joseph Brodsky that you'd like to use.
  • Reference Questions: Use the Library's Ask a Librarian service.
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