Issue link: http://latinschool.uberflip.com/i/133180
Fred Sasaki '94 A member of the Class of '94, Fred Sasaki's love of books and literature drew him to Chicago's Newberry Library after graduating from Boston University. It was at the Newberry that he first encountered Poetry magazine, then housed in the library's space. He began working for the small publication as a paid intern. In 2003, Sasaki's destiny was altered through an extraordinary bequest by heiress Ruth Lilly that created the Poetry Foundation and allowed Poetry to move to a completely different level. Now as associate editor of the magazine, Sasaki is passionate about being "a leader in shaping a receptive climate for poetry by developing new audiences, creating new avenues for delivery and encouraging new kinds of poetry." Founded in 1912, Poetry has published "works by virtually every significant poet of the 42 Latin Magazine 20th century," and Sasaki believes the magazine "is the place and heart for poetry in America in print and digital media." Sasaki's passion for literature and poetry has a Latin connection. "Greg Baker stuck with me somehow. There was something about his presence. There was an expectation, an obligation, to think and explore; an elevated engagement with your world was a given." He also appreciates Ruth Hutton's role in nurturing his talents through "her joy of life and literature. She broke down language and made it relevant." With a personal interest in writing non-fiction pieces, short plays, radio plays and some fiction, Sasaki appreciates poetry but does not write it. One of his creative non-fiction works, however, has won an Illinois Arts Council Award. Sasaki urges young writers to read. "Learn what speaks to you, what brings literature alive. Watch the magic happen. Don't be afraid to read, to be aware. Open your eyes to great books, great minds, great people." He believes that reading informs writing, and he counsels writers to "get it out. Say how you feel. Articulate your experiences, and write what you see." Sasaki sees Poetry magazine branching out with newer, more inclusive types of poetry and poets. His role as associate editor is to bring in specialty pieces and special productions that enliven the traditional world of poetry. Perhaps one of Sasaki's most notable events is the annual Printer's Ball, one of the largest celebrations of print culture in the country. "You see immense talent all in one place," Sasaki explains. "Sparks fly. Connections are made from around the world." Along with his editorial work at Poetry, Sasaki is the editor-at-large for Stop Smiling, a magazine and book publisher "for high-minded lowlifes." He also works closely with literary organizations like ACM (Another Chicago Magazine) and Homeroom. Fred Sasaki's life is immersed in words, at the heart of a vibrant cultural community. He wouldn't wish it to be any other way. "Don't be afraid to read, to be aware. Open your eyes to great books, great minds, great people."