The New York School (poetry movement)

The New York School was a mid-20th-century poetry movement emphasizing spontaneity, innovation, and a connection to contemporary urban life. Influenced by modern art and jazz, poets like Frank O’Hara, John Ashbery, and Kenneth Koch valued personal expression, humor, and the everyday. Their style often blended informal language with experimental techniques, reflecting the vibrant, fast-paced atmosphere of New York City. The movement celebrated individuality and fostered collaborations across arts, making poetry accessible and dynamic, capturing the city's energy and the complexity of modern experience.