Let's make this birthday one to remember.

82 years old (Born on June 17, 1942)

Happy Birthday, Ron Padgett! Another year older and still juggling words like they're Great Balls of Fire. Your poetry continues to surprise us—you've mastered the art of turning "The Big Something" into something even bigger (and funnier). Who knew that Bean Spasms could age so gracefully?

From your early days collaborating with Ted Berrigan to reminding us all that You Never Know what's coming next, you've kept readers laughing and pondering in equal measure. Here's hoping this birthday brings you as much joy as your poems have brought countless fans—because let's face it: poets don't get old; they just rhyme better!