Self-published poet laureate in NC resigns days after uproar over governor’s selection process

RALEIGH, N.C. – North Carolina’s poet laureate is resigning amid criticism of the governor for choosing a writer with just two self-published books.

In a letter dated Thursday, Valerie Macon said she’s resigning because she didn’t want the negative attention her appointment has raised to distract from that prominent post.

She says she remains passionate about the mission of poetry to touch all people, regardless of their education or social status.

When McCrory chose Macon last week, he bypassed the traditional selection process that involved the North Carolina Arts Council. That drew criticism from the state’s established writers, including the four previous poets laureate.

McCrory says he’s reluctantly accepting Macon’s resignation.

Macon is a disability examiner for the state whose poems reflect her interest in helping the homeless.

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Follow Martha Waggoner at http://twitter.com/mjwaggonernc