West Philadelphia man Marshall James Kavanaugh is a self-described “dream poet for hire,” writes Phaedra Trethan for USA Today.

He likes to set up shop in one of the city’s parks where people can “Pick a topic, get a poem,” he explained.

Thursdays through Sundays, he packs up his Smith Corona typewriter into the suitcase it came with when he purchased it at an estate sale, and hops onto his bike. He also brings the typewriter with him when he travels, most often to New Mexico and California, where he will find a public space to offer his services.

In Philadelphia, his favorite spot is Rittenhouse Square, as he finds it to be “the heart of the city” where he can talk to and write for people from all walks of life.

He has been bringing his poetry to public places for the past eight years. His goal is to show others they can go after their dreams like he did by choosing poetry and writing to make a living.

“My mantra is to inspire and be inspired,” said Kavanaugh.

Read more about Marshall James Kavanaugh and how he uses poetry for inspiration in USA Today.

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Editor’s Note: This post first appeared on PHILADELPHIA Today in April 2024.