Black Mountain Poets

The Black Mountain Poets were a group of American poets associated with Black Mountain College, an influential experimental institution in North Carolina that operated from 1933 to 1957. Prominent figures included Charles Olson, Robert Creeley, and Denise Levertov. They emphasized innovative forms, interdisciplinary approaches, and the interplay between poetry and other art forms. The movement is known for its focus on the creative process, spontaneity, and the use of open forms. Their work sought to break away from traditional structures, reflecting a broader countercultural ethos during the mid-20th century. The influence of the Black Mountain Poets persists in contemporary poetry.