Ross Gay

Ross Gay (born August 1, 1971) is an American poet, essayist, and professor. He is known for his lyrical, accessible, and often joyful explorations of the natural world, personal experience, and social issues.

Biography and Education:

Born in Youngstown, Ohio, Gay received a B.A. in English from Lafayette College and an MFA in Poetry from Sarah Lawrence College. He also holds a Ph.D. in American Literature from Temple University.

Career:

Gay currently teaches at Indiana University, where he is a professor of English. He has also taught at various other institutions, including Drew University and Stockton University. He is a founding editor of the online sports magazine Some Call it Ballin'.

Works:

Gay's published works include:

• Against Which (2006)
• Bringing the Shovel Down (2011)
• Catalog of Unabashed Gratitude (2015), winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award and the Kingsley Tufts Poetry Award
• WHEREAS (2017), a book-length poem
• Be Holding (2020), an essay in book form centering on basketball player Julius Erving
• The Book of Delights (2019), a collection of short essays focused on finding joy in everyday life
• Inciting Joy (2022), a book of essays exploring the concept of joy.

His poems and essays have appeared in numerous journals and magazines.

Themes and Style:

Gay's work is characterized by its focus on themes of gratitude, connection, vulnerability, race, masculinity, and the power of observation. He often weaves personal anecdotes and observations of the natural world into his poems and essays, creating a distinctive and deeply personal voice. His writing style is generally accessible and conversational, inviting readers to engage with his ideas and experiences in an intimate way. He frequently employs long, winding sentences and lists, creating a sense of expansiveness and inclusivity.