Raymond Carver

Today, we belatedly note the birth date of Raymond Carver Jr. (May 25, 1938 – August 2, 1988), American short storywriter and poet. He contributed to the revitalization of the American short story during the 1980s.

Here is one of his poems for your consideration:

The Best Time Of The Day

Cool summer nights.
Windows open.
Lamps burning.
Fruit in the bowl.
And your head on my shoulder.
These the happiest moments in the day.

Next to the early morning hours,
of course. And the time
just before lunch.
And the afternoon, and
early evening hours.
But I do love

these summer nights.
Even more, I think,
than those other times.
The work finished for the day.
And no one who can reach us now.
Or ever.

--Raymond Carver