James Tate was an American poet known for his surreal humor, wit, and profound insight into the human condition. Born on December 8, 1943, and passing away on July 8, 2015, Tate's poetry often crossed the boundaries between the everyday and the bizarre, creating unique and unexpected narratives within his works. His style is characterized by a conversational tone that frequently shifts to expose the strangeness and absurdity beneath the surface of modern life. Tate was the recipient of numerous prestigious awards, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry for his 1991 collection "Selected Poems," and the National Book Award for his 1994 collection "Worshipful Company of Fletchers." Throughout his career, he published over 20 collections of poetry and was a significant figure in American letters, influencing many with his inventive and original voice.