Stony Brook University’s Distinguished Professor Rowan Ricardo Phillips has been recognized for his book, "Silver," which has made the longlist for both the National Book Award and the Laurel Prize. Phillips expressed his appreciation by stating, “Poetry is a grand eternal art, both timeless and timely. I’m heartened that Silver is a grain of salt in that great sea.” He added, “Each book is a little something tossed into the water and shared with the world, so the fact that my work finds readers and that they respond well to it means the world to me.”
The National Book Award aims to celebrate outstanding literature published in the United States, broaden its audience, and ensure books maintain cultural prominence. The finalists from this longlist will be announced on October 1, 2024. Meanwhile, the Laurel Prize, funded by the UK Poet Laureate and managed by the Poetry School, honors the best collection of environmental or nature poetry published annually. Its shortlist will be revealed on October 7, 2024.
Benedict Robinson, professor and chair in Stony Brook University's Department of English, commented on Phillips' achievement: “To be longlisted for the National Book Award is a huge honor, and this is the second time Professor Phillips has earned that honor (previously in 2015 for his second book, Heaven). Silver is a tremendous accomplishment and a major addition to a brilliant poetic career. There really is no other voice in poetry quite like this.” Robinson further noted how Phillips’ work blends poetic tradition with contemporary influences from New York and his upbringing in the Bronx.
In addition to these nominations, "Silver" was reviewed in the Times Literary Supplement. Moreover, Phillips’ poem “The First and Final Poem Is the Sun” was featured in Best American Poetry 2024. To celebrate these achievements, Stony Brook University’s Department of English will host a poetry reading and reception on November 14 at 5:00 p.m. at their Poetry Center.
Phillips holds a doctorate in English Literature from Brown University (2003) and has received numerous accolades including awards from Nicolás Guillén Outstanding Book Award to PEN/ESPN Award for Literary Sports Writing. His previous works have also garnered recognition as finalists for prestigious awards such as Griffin International Poetry Prize.