Today marks the 100 years since acclaimed American poet Harold Norse was born in the New York City borough of Brooklyn. Beginning tonight at San Francisco’s Mechanics’ Institute will be a series of events this month commemorating this historic occasion.
The kick off began earlier today outside Harold’s last home in San Francisco’s Mission District on Albion Street– shades of William Blake. As an invocation of the queer poetic spirit, I read a poem by Harold’s friend, poet and filmmaker James Broughton. James was recently profiled in the award-winning documentary Big Joy.
Happy Harold Birthday
For Harold Norse
By James Broughton
Hello Harold
here and there
Hello Harold
Everywhere
Harold in Italy
Harold in Holland
Harold in Tangier
Harold in Hell
Everywhere that I have been
Harold was already in
Harold is a Norse
of wandering force
prankish of nature
and intercourse
Norse is a Harolding
Widespread source
of salty lust
and sweet remorse
Harold in Paris
Harold in Sonoma
Harold in Euphoria
Harold in the Dumps
Everywhere that I have spotted
Harold has already squatted
Hello Harold
near and far
Hello Harold
here you are