Today's Word

PATRON, n.

A person who gives money and support to an artist, organization, etc.


I have heard this word mentioned much over the past couple of weeks. I read today how Olive Higgins Prouty, who authored Stella Dallas,  became a friend and patron to one Sylvia Plath who wrote the poetry in Ariel. Many famous artists have had patrons who supported and befriended them. I'm sure that it's done today but I wonder if in the same magnitude.

When the bourgeois got involved it became more of them building kingdoms and glory for themselves rather than nurturing and supporting the up and coming artists. I began writing poetry almost three years ago and I read occasionally at open mics. Some folks that I've spoken to have said that they received support from another artist or organization.

Chapbooks have opened a way for new writers to get in pr int because the larger publishing house have become concerned with only the writers who will make them money. It's really a shame because they may lose out on an opportunity to nurture some budding writer. There is the need for more patrons.