Charles Bernstein is an American poet, essayist, and professor known for his contributions to the Language poetry movement. Born on April 4, 1950, in New York City, he has published numerous collections of poetry, including "Contemporary American Poetry" and "All the Whiskey in Heaven." Bernstein's work often explores the relationship between language and meaning, challenging traditional forms of poetry. In addition to his poetry, Bernstein is a prominent critic and theorist, influencing contemporary literary discourse. He has taught at various institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania, where he is a faculty member. Bernstein also co-founded the influential literary magazine L=A=N=G=U=A=G=E, which played a significant role in the development of avant-garde literature.