American Conversations: Celebrating Poems in Rural Communities

New Mexico

Tracy K. Smith conducts a reading and discussion with service members at Cannon Air Force Base near Clovis, New Mexico. January 11, 2018. Credit: Shawn Miller.

From January 11-13, 2018, Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith traveled to rural communities in New Mexico as a pilot for “American Conversations.” On this site you’ll find photos, audio, press, and reflections from her time on the road.

To take a deeper dive into Tracy K. Smith’s visit to New Mexico, listen to “Making ‘American Conversations’: Part 1,” the first episode in a special three-part series of the Library of Congress’ “From the Catbird Seat” podcast that chronicles the origins of the poet laureate’s project. Tune in via our podcast page or your preferred podcast app.

• View New Mexico photo gallery
• Listen to and read interviews with New Mexico community members
• Learn more about New Mexico venues and partners
• Explore New Mexico press coverage

Public Events

• Thursday, January 11, 5:30 p.m.
  Cannon AFB, NM
  Private event
  Cannon Air Force Base
• Friday, January 12, 11:30 a.m.
  Santa Fe, NM
  Private event
  Santa Fe Indian School
• Saturday, January 13, 11 a.m.
  Española, NM
  Private event
  Santa Clara Pueblo