Alice Elizabeth Notley, born on November 8, 1945, is an acclaimed American poet who emerged as a notable figure in the literary world, often associated with the second generation of the New York School of poetry. Despite this association, Notley herself has consistently refuted alignment with any specific literary movement. Her poetic work has established foundational principles influential to multiple generations of poets, marking her as an innovative voice on subjects like motherhood and domestic life.

Notley's bold experiments with poetic form are evident in her books such as 165 Meeting House Lane, When I Was Alive, The Descent of Alette, and Culture of One. Her approach ranges from a genre-blending narrative to innovative uses of quotation marks to reinterpret the variable foot, and even to a complete reimagining of strict rhythm and meter's purpose and potential. Additionally, her poetry often incorporates elements of channeling the spirits of deceased loved ones, including her father and her late husband, poet Ted Berrigan, utilizing these otherworldly conversations as both subject matter and structural framework.

Notley's creative influence extends beyond poetry; she has penned criticism, a play, a biography, and has served as editor for several publications. Her visual artistry is showcased in Rudy Burckhardt's film "Wayward Glimpses" and on the covers of various books, including her own. A prolific author with over forty books and chapbooks, Notley is one of today's most esteemed American poets and has been honored with the prestigious Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize among other accolades. She stands firm in her devotion to poetry, once stating, "I have never tried to be anything other than a poet."