Dennis Cooley has lived most of his life on the Canadian prairies, where for over 40 years he has been active as teacher, editor, poet, critic, anthologist, publisher, mentor, and supporter of writing. His work has been immersed in family, the prairies, and a play with form. His most recent titles include The Home Place (essays on Robert Kroetsch’s poetry), and two books of poetry—Abecedarium and Departures. His acclaimed poetry collection The Muse Sings was released by At Bay Press in 2020.
August 25th, 2026
Dennis Cooley is one of Canada’s most decorated and important poets.
September 30th, 2020
The Muse Sings and the poet sings songs of love and longing from states of joy, self-doubt, vexation, curiosity, affection, observation, mock-indignation… The poems speak for themselves and sometimes “they talk all at once.”
