William Trowbridge (poet)

William Trowbridge (born January 22, 1939) is an American poet known for his accessible and humorous verse that often explores themes of masculinity, aging, and the human condition. He is also a jazz drummer and has incorporated rhythmic elements into his poetic style.

Trowbridge earned a B.A. from Southwest Missouri State University and an M.A. from the University of Arkansas. He has taught creative writing and literature at numerous institutions, including Northwest Missouri State University, where he served as Distinguished University Professor Emeritus.

His collections of poetry include O Paradise (University of Arkansas Press, 1995), Enter Dark Stranger (University of Arkansas Press, 2000), Ship of Fool (Red Hen Press, 2009), The Complete Book of Kong (Red Hen Press, 2003), Pretty Redwing (Red Hen Press, 2013), and Put This On, Please: New and Selected Poems (Red Hen Press, 2019). His poems have appeared in numerous journals and anthologies.

Trowbridge's work has been praised for its wit, intelligence, and emotional depth. He often uses persona poems and narrative techniques to create engaging and relatable characters. His poetry avoids overly complex language and imagery, making it accessible to a wide audience while maintaining a high level of artistic craftsmanship. He is considered a significant voice in contemporary American poetry.