News at Eleven: Rest assured, Philip Levine readied himself

for his inaugural Monday night gig as the poet laureate of the United States.

"I bought a suit," he said. "It almost fits."

The 83-year-old Levine remains comfortable in his own skin, whatever epaulets are added. His former students at California State University, Fresno, still know him as Phil. He answers his own phone; he sets strangers at ease.

This poet laureate business? It's already a kick, though it's only just begun.

"I'm loving it," Levine said. "By the time I get used to it, it'll probably be over."

from Fresno Bee: Levine formally begins role as poet laureate

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