Newswise — The National Book Foundation has named Maryland Distinguished University Professor of English Stanley Plumly a National Book Award finalist for his book of poems called "Old Heart." Plumly - who also directs Maryland's Creative Writing Program - is a prolific writer with some 350 articles published and numerous books.

He has been called one of the most influential American poets of the last 25 years.

Recently, Maryland Senior Media Relations Associate Dave Ottalini sat down with Prof. Plumly to talk about his nomination and about how - and why - he writes poetry.

Online: http://www.newsdesk.umd.edu/culture/release.cfm?ArticleID=1523

Hi resolution photos of Prof. Plumly are available online at: http://www.newsdesk.umd.edu/culture/release.cfm?ArticleID=1523.

A transcription of the interview is now available online at:http://newsdesk.umd.edu/culture/2007/Plumly/Plumlytext.cfm.