I've always been in the camp that anyone can (and should!) make art and share it however they want, or not at all. Community arts programs make that available all around NC and with technology it's becoming even easier. However, I don't think it is in any way elitist to have a practiced writer and teacher serving as poet laureate, especially if they only have 2 years to do the work. It doesn't leave much time to learn on the job. I hope that Ms. Macon continues to write and finds other ways to serve her community through art.
Re: “What does a state poet laureate do—and why does it matter?”
I've always been in the camp that anyone can (and should!) make art and share it however they want, or not at all. Community arts programs make that available all around NC and with technology it's becoming even easier. However, I don't think it is in any way elitist to have a practiced writer and teacher serving as poet laureate, especially if they only have 2 years to do the work. It doesn't leave much time to learn on the job. I hope that Ms. Macon continues to write and finds other ways to serve her community through art.