Jayne Cortez (1936-2012) was the author of eleven books of poetry and performer of her poems with music on nine recordings. Her voice was celebrated for its political, surrealistic, dynamic innovations in lyricism, and visceral sound. Cortez presented her work and ideas at universities, museums, and festivals around the world.

"Cortez has been and continues to be an explorer, probing the valleys and chasms of human existence. No ravine is too perilous, no abyss too threatening for Jayne Cortez."—Maya Angelou

"Jayne Cortez's poems are filled with images that most of us are afraid to see."—Walter Mosley

"If you haven't read Jayne Cortez, you're missing some of the best that life has to offer. A compellingly original voice of fire and freedom."—Franklin Rosemont