Beneath a Single Moon : Buddhism in Contemporary American Poetry

Beneath a Single Moon is a landmark anthology that examines the rich tapestry of Buddhist influence on contemporary American poetry. Edited by Kent Johnson and Craig Paulenich, this collection brings together diverse voices exploring the intricate relationship between meditation, artistic expression, and the essence of Buddhist teachings. At its core, the book challenges conventional notions of spirituality and creativity, offering readers a unique perspective on the intersection between Eastern philosophy and Western poetic traditions. The contributors, including Allen Ginsberg, Anne Waldman, and Philip Whalen, share their personal journeys and insight, revealing how Buddhist principles have shaped their artistic endeavors and worldviews. Through their words, readers gain a deeper understanding of the transformative power of both meditation and poetry.

This anthology invites readers to explore the beauty of ordinary moments and the profound connections that bind us all. As the poets grapple with themes of impermanence, interconnectedness, and the nature of reality, they offer a compelling vision of how spirituality and art can illuminate the complexities of the human experience. Beneath a Single Moon stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Buddhism on American literature and the universal quest for meaning and authenticity.

Kent Johnson is a member of the faculty of Highland Community College in Freeport, Illinois, where he teaches English and Spanish. His writing has appeared in the American Poetry Review, Grand Street, Michigan Quarterly Review, and Sulfur. He is editor of Third Wave: The New Russian Poetry.

Craig Paulenich is an Assistant Professor of English and Writing Coordinator at Kent State University, Salem Campus. He was the recipient of the Academy of American Poets Award at the University of Pittsburgh in 1982. His poems have appeared in The Georgia Review, Kansas Review, South Carolina Review, Southern Poetry Review, Tar River Poetry, and Windhorse.