Rita Dove is an accomplished American poet and writer. Born on August 28, 1952, in Akron, Ohio, she is a significant figure in contemporary American literature. Dove served as the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress from 1993 to 1995, becoming both the youngest person and the first African-American to hold the position. Her work is known for its lyrical quality and themes ranging from history and politics to personal identity and family life. Dove's poetry is characterized by its versatility and has been praised for its emotional depth and technical proficiency. Her collection "Thomas and Beulah," which tells the semi-fictionalized story of her maternal grandparents, won the 1987 Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Rita Dove is also a playwright, essayist, and professor. She has received numerous honors and awards for her literary contributions. Her significant influence on the literary landscape continues to be felt through her teaching, public speaking, and ongoing publication of works that engage with American culture and experiences.