Bill Knott (poet)

Bill Knott (1940-1996) was an American poet known for his highly personal, often darkly humorous, and experimental work. He adopted the pseudonym "Saint Geraud" for a period, publishing work under both names, and sometimes hinting at a fictional rivalry between the two personas. Knott's poetry frequently dealt with themes of loss, death, alienation, and the complexities of human relationships.

Knott's distinctive style involved a conversational tone punctuated by sudden shifts in language, tone, and subject matter. He employed a wide range of poetic techniques, including unconventional syntax, fragmented narratives, and striking imagery. His poems often have a raw and vulnerable quality, exposing inner turmoil and challenging conventional notions of poetic beauty.

While he never achieved mainstream fame, Knott developed a devoted following among other poets and readers interested in innovative and challenging poetry. His work has been influential in the development of experimental and postmodern poetry.

Key collections of Knott's work include The Naomi Poems: Corpse and Beans (1968), Auto Necrophilia (1971), Poems 1963-1966 (1968), and Selected and Collected Poems (1993). His work continues to be read and studied for its unique voice and its exploration of the complexities of human experience. He taught at Emerson College and MIT. His work remains a significant contribution to American poetry of the late 20th century.