5 Works of Queer Poetry for National Poetry Month

Alan Chelak is the current manager at Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni’s Room. When he isn’t at the store, he is studying English at the University of Pennsylvania. He has published several works of poetry, including “Windows 3.1” and “CAPTCHA.” He lives in West Philadelphia with his partner and their little dog Dumpy.

“Pansy” by Andrea Gibson

This new collection of poetry by Andrea Gibson explores themes of love and gender and solidifies Gibson as one of the most interesting poets working in the United States today.

“City of Starlings” by Daniel Nathan Terry

Perhaps it’s Wilmington writer Daniel Nathan Terry’s background in horticulture that allows him to marry a wonder for nature and everything else that is “disastrously beautiful” about living in the 21st century. This book is full of so many stunning moments you’re going to want a copy for your library, and your friend’s library too.

“Meddle English” by Caroline Bergvall

This book was a great revelation to me: Bergvall does things with language that just shouldn’t be possible, leaving the reader in awe of her mastery. Highly recommended.

“Snowflake / different streets” by Eileen Myles

At the moment, Eileen Myles is probably my favorite poet and Snowfalke/Different Streets is a great introduction to her work. Her poems seem simple at first, but after reading you find yourself obsessing over how easy she makes the medium seem. Her Twitter handle is @EileenMyles—she's one of the best follows out there.

“War of the Foxes” by Richard Siken

Here at the store, we’re all big fans of Siken’s “Crush” (2005), and are eagerly awaiting publication of his next collection “War of the Foxes.” Be sure to stop by the store on or after April 28th to pick up a copy for yourself!

Philly AIDS Thrift @ Giovanni's Room

Support the oldest LGBT book store in the country by stopping in to its location at 345 South 12th Street, or snag one of these recommended books in their online store here to check it out! Open Monday to Thursday, 11 am to 8 pm; Friday and Saturday, 11:00 am to 9 pm; and Sunday 11 am to 7:00 pm.