Marcus Amaker takes daily naps. He’s also a dad, husband, Charleston’s first Poet Laureate, an opera writer, and an Academy of American Poets fellow. He’s published ten books, released 36 albums of electronic music and three albums with a Grammy Award winner. He’s also the graphic designer of No Depression, the national roots music journal. His poetry has been recognized by The Source, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, The Washington Post, PBS Newshour, NPR, Button Poetry, American Poets Magazine, The Kennedy Center, and more.

News & updates

My tenth book

Hold What Makes You Whole was released on April 4, 2023! It feels like my best work, and I’m blessed to share it with you. It’s 200 pages of 70 poems in full color. Check out the reviews in Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and the Aiken Standard. There’s short films, music, an audiobook, and more. Book info

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Opera in Chicago

I am overjoyed to announce The Weight Of Light, an original opera I wrote for the Chicago Opera Theater. Music will be composed by Gillian Rae Perry, Chicago Opera Theater’s Vanguard Composer. It will premiere April 27, 2024. A total joy to work on! Get ready for something magical … Learn more