Wilmington brothers named as Delaware's Poets Laureate
Identical twin brothers Al Mills and Nnamdi Chukwuocha were named Delaware's poets laureate on December 16. They are the 17th poets laureate of the state.
Both the twins are social workers, and are known for their poetry, in which they tackle issues such as poverty, violence, and the criminal justice system. Chukwuocha is a member of the Wilmington City Council, and Mills is a community activist. Together, they say they will bring a “new flavor” to the honorary office.
This is the first time in its 70-year history that the title of state poet laureate will be shared. Honorees serve as ambassadors for poetry, work with the Delaware Division of the Arts to develop programming, and deliver speeches at state events, such as the openings of legislative sessions.
The brothers started writing poetry when they were about six years old, when their mother had them express their feelings by writing things down instead of fighting with each other. Chukwoucha recalls that his brother once wrote him a letter, explaining what he (Chukwoucha) had done to make his sibling angry. Chukwoucha would then respond. The letter writing led to storytelling, and finally poetry.
State officials might consider working creating brochures for wide distribution, introducing the state's newest poets laureate to residents, and giving a short bio and introducing some of their work.
Both the twins are social workers, and are known for their poetry, in which they tackle issues such as poverty, violence, and the criminal justice system. Chukwuocha is a member of the Wilmington City Council, and Mills is a community activist. Together, they say they will bring a “new flavor” to the honorary office.
This is the first time in its 70-year history that the title of state poet laureate will be shared. Honorees serve as ambassadors for poetry, work with the Delaware Division of the Arts to develop programming, and deliver speeches at state events, such as the openings of legislative sessions.
The brothers started writing poetry when they were about six years old, when their mother had them express their feelings by writing things down instead of fighting with each other. Chukwoucha recalls that his brother once wrote him a letter, explaining what he (Chukwoucha) had done to make his sibling angry. Chukwoucha would then respond. The letter writing led to storytelling, and finally poetry.
State officials might consider working creating brochures for wide distribution, introducing the state's newest poets laureate to residents, and giving a short bio and introducing some of their work.