I grew up in Meriden, Connecticut, a city once famous for its silverware industry. Both my parents were factory workers and bartenders (my father claimed he once served Judy Garland). I received my BA in English from the University of Connecticut in 1966 and my MA in 1976 (I am, alas, a PhD dropout). I’ve worked as a journalist, copywriter, and teacher. Also: I’m co-editor of the Connecticut River Review.
I have two children Vanessa, a union organizer and John Edward, a musician and graphic artist, and three grandsons: Jerzy, Edward Stanislaus, and Ishmael. I live in Hebron, Connecticut, with my wife, Denise, who is an avid and incredibly patient supporter of my work. Pretty boring, huh?