John Ashbery was an influential American poet, born on July 28, 1927, in Rochester, New York. He is known for his unique style that blends abstract imagery with everyday language, often exploring themes of perception and reality. Ashbery's work defies traditional poetic forms, making him a key figure in the New York School of poetry. Throughout his career, Ashbery published numerous collections, including his acclaimed book, Self-Portrait in a Convex Mirror, which won the Pulitzer Prize in 1976. His innovative approach to poetry has inspired many writers and continues to shape contemporary literature. Ashbery passed away on September 3, 2021.