Paul Haines (poet)

Paul Haines (1933-2003) was a Canadian-American poet, lyricist, and performer best known for his collaborations with jazz musicians, most notably Carla Bley. Born in Rocky Mountain House, Alberta, Canada, Haines spent a significant portion of his life in New York City, becoming a fixture in the downtown arts scene.

Haines's poetry is characterized by its fragmented, surreal, and often humorous style. His work often explores themes of alienation, identity, and the absurdity of modern life. He had a knack for weaving together disparate images and ideas into evocative and thought-provoking compositions.

His most celebrated work is likely his lyrics for Carla Bley's jazz opera Escalator Over the Hill (1971), a sprawling and ambitious project that showcased Haines's ability to create complex and engaging narratives within a musical framework. He also collaborated with Bley on other projects, including the album Tropic Appetites (1974).

Beyond his work with Bley, Haines published several collections of poetry, including Pain Equals Strawberry (1971) and Rhine Sketches (1993). He also performed his poetry extensively, often accompanied by music. Haines's influence can be seen in the work of other poets and musicians who embrace experimental and collaborative approaches to art. He is remembered for his unique voice and his contributions to the intersection of poetry and jazz.