Natasha Trethewey

Natasha Trethewey is an acclaimed American poet and author, born in Gulfport, Mississippi. She served as the 19th U.S. Poet Laureate from 2012 to 2014. Trethewey’s work often explores themes of history, memory, and identity, focusing on her biracial heritage and Southern upbringing. Her Pulitzer Prize-winning collection, "Native Guard" (2006), is celebrated for its poignant portrayal of African American soldiers during the Civil War. She is also the author of "Memorial Drive: A Daughter’s Memoir," which delves into her personal history and family tragedy. Trethewey is a passionate advocate for poetry’s role in healing and understanding.