Denise Levertov was a British-American poet born on October 24, 1923, in Ilford, England. She became known for her innovative and lyrical poetry, often exploring themes of nature, spirituality, and social justice. Levertov's work reflects her deep engagement with the world around her and her commitment to political activism. Throughout her career, Levertov published numerous collections, including The Sorrow Dance and Breathing the Water. She was associated with the Black Mountain School and influenced by the Beat Generation. Levertov's poetry has earned her several awards, including the Lannan Literary Award and the William Carlos Williams Award. She passed away on December 20, 1997.