Pronunciation: [dˈɒnə͡ld d͡ʒˈʌstɪs] (IPA) 
The name "Donald Justice" is spelled in English as /ˈdɑːnəld ˈdʒʌstɪs/. The first syllable, "Don," is pronounced as "dawn" without the "w." The second syllable, "ald," is pronounced like "old" but with a "d" sound at the beginning. The stress falls on the second syllable, so the "jus" in "Justice" is pronounced like "jus" in "just." Finally, the "ice" in "Justice" is pronounced as "iss," rhyming with "miss."
Donald Justice (1925-2004) was an influential American poet and teacher. He is considered one of the most significant voices of the post-war generation and a master of formal verse. Justice’s poetry is characterized by its controlled and precise language, rich imagery, musicality, and an inclination towards introspection and the exploration of universal themes such as loss, longing, and the complexities of human relationships.
In his works, Justice often employed traditional poetic forms, particularly sonnets, villanelles, and quatrains, demonstrating a deep appreciation for the art of craft and meter. His poems are known for their careful attention to detail and the economy of language, allowing each word to carry significant weight and contribute to the overall meaning of the piece. While Justice’s poetry often tackles personal experiences and emotions, there is also an underlying universality that allows readers to connect with the broader human condition.
Donald Justice’s work is marked by its formal elegance and attention to formal structures, as he sought to find a balance between the cold precision of form and the warmth and vulnerability of emotion. His poems often explore themes of memory, nostalgia, and the fleeting nature of time, evoking a sense of profound melancholy and solitude. Throughout his career, Justice received numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1980 for his collection "Selected Poems." His contributions to American poetry continue to be celebrated and admired for their artistic mastery, depth, and evocative power.
