Hayden Carruth (1921-2008) was an American poet and literary critic, renowned for his wide-ranging body of work, which includes poetry, essays, and a novel. His works are highly regarded for their depth, addressing complex issues such as mental illness, economics, social injustice, and the environment, with a style that intertwines the academic with the accessible. Carruth began his extensive literary career after his education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the University of Chicago. His first book of poetry, 'The Crow and the Heart' appeared in 1959, but he is perhaps best known for 'Scrambled Eggs & Whiskey', which won the National Book Award for Poetry in 1996. 'The Voyage of the Rattletrap', while lesser-known, showcases Carruth's versatility as a writer, blending his poetic sensibility with prose storytelling. His literary style often reflects a blend of formal structure and free verse, as well as the use of colloquial language, which allows for a powerful and personal connection with his readers. Over the decades, Carruth's work remained consistent in its quality and relevance, establishing him as a significant figure in 20th-century American literature. He was also a respected editor and teacher, sharing his passion for the written word with many aspiring writers throughout his career.