Governor Ryan Offers Condolences to Family and Friends of Gwendolyn Brooks

CHICAGO -- Governor George H. Ryan offered his heartfelt condolences today to the family and friends of Illinois' poet laureate, Gwendolyn Brooks.

"Gwendolyn Brooks captured life's simple moments in her many volumes of poetry, books, essays and reviews. Through her work and advocacy, she gave a voice to the poor and oppressed, especially the people from her South Side Chicago community.

She was celebrated in her lifetime and recognized for her ability to capture both the subtle and grand moments of life. We have been blessed to have her serve as our state's poet laureate for the past 32 years."