4 minute read
Bringing Poetry to Life: Celebrating 50 years of Shelby Stephenson's work
from March 2024
by Johnston Now
Submitted by Rose Cushing
What is poetry exactly?
Poetry is defined as a literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style, rhythm and the use of words. Poetry evokes beauty and intensity of emotion.
I never thought much about poetry, remembering it in school as a difficult subject that I mostly didn’t understand. As I became a writer, I was exposed to poetry in many different facets and was quite surprised at the way it made me feel. Yes, the way it made me feel. Then I read some poetry by Shelby Stephenson, a local noted poet, that talked about things I grew up with in rural North Carolina. Farming, livestock, family, and country ways. I related and fell in love.
Shelby Stephenson was born in 1938 in a little plankhouse near Benson. Growing up he only had two books in his home, the Bible and the Sears catalog. From humble beginnings, Shelby grew and knew education was his way to bigger and better things.
He went to college, obtaining his bachelor’s degree in 1960 from UNC Chapel Hill. He received his master’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh and went on to receive his Doctorate from the University of Wisconsin.
Shelby taught at Campbell College where he was the English Department Chair. Then moved on to the University of North Carolina at Pembroke as Professor of English. He was the Editor of the Pembroke Magazine for many years.
He began writing poetry in 1973. His first poem, “Whales are Hard to See,” was published in the Davidson Miscellany in 1973. Shelby is also a lover of music. He plays guitar and sings. “I thought about going to Nashville to pursue a career in music, but the words kept calling me,” Stephenson said. He continues to play music and sing, jamming with friends in Raleigh or at our Open Mic sessions in Benson.
Shelby has published more than 20 books of poetry. In 2014 Governor Pat McCrory appointed Stephenson as the North Carolina Poet Laureate. He served in this position until 2018. In 2014 Stepheson was inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame.
Now, what is a poet laureate? A poet laureate is appointed by a governing body to travel across North Carolina to engage writers and readers of all ages in a variety of settings including schools, libraries and community centers; communication with the press and drafting commemorative poems for historical or culturally important occasions. You can only become a laureate by appointment.
Former Poet Laureate Kathryn Stripling Byer also said: "He's just good, both as a person and as a poet. ... His poetic voice just flows like a spring. He's natural and we really need a voice like his right now with all the divisions we have in this state", adding that "the choice is brilliant, and I am rejoicing in the news. Shelby is a longtime friend, a powerful voice in North Carolina literature.
Shelby happily traveled from the Outer Banks all across this great state to the far reaches of the mountains to teach and share his work. Stephenson’s books brilliantly chronicle life growing up in rural North Carolina with a deep appreciation for all the things we have.
Shelby has won just about every imaginable award for his works including the coveted Gilbert Chapel Distinguished Poet Award.
Shelby Stephenson rose to meet his potential in life. Valuing a good education, working hard and nurturing his creativity to become one of our state’s treasures.
Writing about possums and hogs to the plight of a slave girl named July, Shelby’s works evoke memories and emotion, just as poetry should. No matter where you are from, I honestly think you, too, will fall in love with these words and phrases that give us a deep appreciation for life and simplicity. We are fortunate to have such a master of words and feelings living in Johnston County.
Now at age 85, Shelby Stephenson is still writing beautiful poetry and has produced his newest book, “Cow Mire Songs.” An incredibly special book of poetry penned as only Shelby can, celebrating our heritage and way of life. It’s available now, locally and online.
