Allen Cohen (poet)

Allen Cohen was a prominent American poet, born in 1940 in Brooklyn, New York. He pursued his education at Brooklyn College, laying the foundation for his future literary endeavors. In 1963, Cohen relocated to San Francisco, a move that would significantly influence his poetic career and cultural involvement. It was in San Francisco that he took on a pivotal role in the city's vibrant literary and underground scene.

Cohen's contributions to literature and journalism are notable, particularly his founding and editing of the San Francisco Oracle, an underground newspaper that ran from 1966 to 1968. His commitment to peace and social commentary was further evident in his work on Peace News, a newspaper he edited following the September 11 attacks. Additionally, Cohen co-edited the poetry anthology An Eye for an Eye Makes the Whole World Blind: Poets on 9/11 in 2002, showcasing his dedication to using poetry as a medium for reflection and social commentary. Allen Cohen passed away on April 29, 2004, in Walnut Creek, California, due to complications from liver cancer and hepatitis C.