NEW YORK – A remarkable debut poetry collection by a biologist that seamlessly intertwines scientific insights with critiques of slavery and colonialism has been awarded a prestigious literary prize of $10,000. The Cave Canem Prize, known for supporting and nurturing the work of unpublished Black poets, has previously launched the careers of notable poets like Natasha Trethewey and Tracy K. Smith.

This year’s recipient of the Cave Canem award is Dr. Brandon Kilbourne for his literary work titled “Natural History.” This accolade, which has been awarded since its inception in 1999, aims to highlight emerging talent in the realm of Black poetry. Notably, it was first awarded to Trethewey, a former U.S. poet laureate and Pulitzer Prize-winning author, who served as the judge for this year’s selection.

In her citation, Trethewey shared, “Dr. Kilbourne, a research biologist at the Berlin Museum of Natural History, has not only examined artifacts but has also delved into their deeper meanings. The poetry collection offers a nuanced reflection on the beauty and tragedy of the natural world, serving as an elegy for the Earth, crafted by someone who perceives clearly the signs of its impending loss.”

Cave Canem announced that Kilbourne’s book is set for publication next fall through Graywolf Press. The organization, headquartered in New York, is dedicated to fostering and elevating the voices of Black poets through various initiatives and support systems.

In response to receiving the recognition, Kilbourne expressed his gratitude, stating, “Coming from a background grounded in the sciences rather than creative writing, being honored with the Cave Canem Prize is profoundly meaningful to me. The significance is heightened by the fact that ‘Natural History’ was chosen for this prize by Natasha Trethewey.”