A conversational, nerdy, funny, and sexy contribution to the history of feminist and lesbian movements and the practice and criticism of poetry.Conversational, nerdy, funny, and sexy, How Lesbians Saved Poetry asks: "Why are so many of our great feminist and queer studies icons poets?" Incorporating personal narrative, literary analysis, craft essays, poems, graphics, and interviews, Lisa L. Moore describes the significance of lesbian poets in the formation of contemporary poetry as well as feminist and queer studies and activism. In a multimethod style that is conversational, wry, and candid, the book explores notable debates such as the feminist sex wars, the politics of the sonnet, and poetic traditons of critiquing racist violence. The book also includes priceless interviews with poets Samiya Bashir, Chrystos, Cheryl Clarke, Judy Grahn, Minnie Bruce Pratt, and Eileen Myles. How Lesbians Saved Poetry is a timeless and necessary contribution to the history of feminist and lesbian movements and the practice and criticism of poetry.