John Barr

John Barr is an accomplished poet and author whose work spans over three decades, marked by a distinctive blend of lyrical precision and thematic depth. His forthcoming collection, "The Boxer of Quirinal," will be published by Red Hen Press in June 2023, adding to a body of work that includes notable titles such as "Dante in China," "The Adventures of Ibn Opcit," and "The Hundred Fathom Curve: New & Collected Poems." His earlier collections, including "Grace," "Centennial Suite," and "The War Zone," have established him as a versatile voice in contemporary poetry. Barr's poems have appeared in numerous magazines and fine press editions, reflecting his enduring engagement with the craft.

Beyond his literary achievements, Barr has played a significant role in supporting the arts through institutional leadership. He served as the inaugural President of the Poetry Foundation in Chicago for a decade, overseeing the publication of "Poetry" magazine and stewarding Ruth Lilly's transformative gift. Prior to this, he contributed to organizations such as the Poetry Society of America and Yaddo, while also serving on the board of Bennington College. His career reflects a rare duality, having retired from a parallel 30-year tenure in finance, where he was a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley and a pioneer in energy market innovation. A Harvard Business School Baker Scholar and Navy veteran, Barr's multifaceted background informs the richness and scope of his creative work.