Talking With Poets: Robert Milby at the Mudd Puddle Cafe
Thom Francis remembers Hudson Valley poet, host, and educator Robert Milby, who passed away in December 2024, with his reading at the 15th Anniversary of the Mudd Poets open mic series in New Paltz on June 16, 2018.
Born and raised in Florida, New York, Robert began sharing his poetry publicly in March 1995. Over nearly three decades, he performed at more than 1,500 readings, captivating audiences across the Hudson Valley, New York City, Long Island, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New England.
Robert’s poetry appeared in respected publications such as Chronogram and Home Planet News, as well as in anthologies like Will Work for Peace and Calling All Poets: CAPs Voices. His collections, including Ophelia’s Offspring and Victorian House: Ghosts and Gothic Poems, reveal his mastery of language and his deep connection to the spiritual and the gothic.
In May 2017, Robert was appointed Poet Laureate of Orange County, New York, a role in which he championed poetry’s power to connect communities. His chapbook Gothic, Orange reflected his appreciation for the region’s unique character.
Robert’s performances were unforgettable, often blending poetry with music. His collaborations with Carl Welden in “Theremin Ghosts!” brought poetry to life in a haunting and innovative way. This unique duo became a seasonal favorite during October, adding to the mystique of Robert’s gothic-themed work.
By his own reckoning, Robert Milby was a featured reader over 450 times in his 30 year career as the “Hudson Valley’s hardest working poet.” He hosted over 30 poetry open mic series in that time.
Robert Milby’s legacy will continue to inspire poets and writers throughout the Hudson Valley and beyond. He leaves behind a body of work that speaks to the human experience with grace, passion, and honesty.
There will be a memorial celebration and open mic at Elting Memorial Library, 93 Main Street, New Paltz NY, on January 19, 2025 from 1 to 5:00pm.
Bring five minutes of material to perform, either one of Robert’s own poems, a poem of your own written in his honor, or a poem by one of his favorite poets.
