Library Program Pays Tribute to "Star" Poet

The life and work of Detroit poet laureate Dr. Naomi Long Madgett is the focus of a Detroit Public Library Program April 20.

Author and publisher Long Madgett will attend the premiere of “Star by Star,” a documentary highlighting six decades of work. Hosted by the InsideOut Literary Arts Project, the National Poetry Month event accompanies an ongoing exhibit including articles that date back to 1940.

Born in Virginia, Long Madgett has called Detroit home since 1946. As early as her teen years, she moved in artistic circles that led to her acquaintance with such legendary writers as Langston Hughes and Countee Cullen.

Long Madgett says she’s eager to view the film, which borrows its title from one of her poems. “Star by Star” was produced by David B. Shock.

Among the “Star by Star” exhibit items is a bronze bust of Long Madgett on loan from the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History. Also included is a rare photo of Dutch publisher Rosey Pool, who was a scholar of black poets, and who included Long Madgett’s writing in an anthology.

“Star by Star’s” screening will be in the library's Friends Auditorium, and is free and open to the public. The exhibit is on display in the library’s Cass Concourse.