Paul Laurence Dunbar was a fascinating African American poet. Born to parents who were former slaves, Paul grew up in Ohio. His mother recognized his abilities and managed to prioritize his education against all odds. Despite his qualifications, he had trouble finding work because he was Black. He accepted a job as an elevator operator and self-published his first book of poetry, Oak and Ivy. This was the first book in what would become a total of 12 poetry books published during his lifetime. Paul's genius shows in his tactful use of rhyme, classic poetical form, and 19th-century African American Vernacular English.
