In our celebration of literature, we spotlight the poets, short fiction writers, and novelists who have shaped modern storytelling, offering fresh perspectives on history, culture, and the human experience. The following writers—many of them former Poet Laureates—have not only enriched American letters but also carved out unique spaces for their voices to be heard, from lyrical poetry to deeply resonant novels. Their works share common landscapes, histories, and cultural legacies that continue to inspire readers today.