Jonathan Galassi declares himself gay in "Left-handed," a book of poetry

In a new book of poems, high-ranking editor Jonathan Galassi ’71 alludes to his homosexuality.

In Left-handed, a book of poetry that is forthcoming in more ways than one, Jonathan Galassi ’71, president and publisher of Farrar, Straus and Giroux, finds a poetic voice for long-buried homosexual feelings. Galassi was for many years editor-in-chief at the distinguished publishing house. His new book will be published in March by Alfred A. Knopf/Random House.

In a searching profile in the New York Times, Charles McGrath, a former editor of the New York Times Book Review, explores Galassi's many-faceted career and his divorce after 36 years of marriage to Susan Grace Galassi, as well as Galassi's love relations with men in recent years. The Times also published three poems from the book.

For more about Galassi, read “High Type Culture,” a profile from Harvard Magazine’s archives.

You might also like

Conan O’Brien Named Harvard’s 2026 Commencement Speaker

The comedian, host, and 1985 graduate will deliver remarks at the May 28 ceremony. 

Harvard’s Hasty Pudding Honors Rose Byrne

The Bridesmaids actress celebrated her 2026 Woman of the Year Award with a roast and a parade.

Harvard’s Hasty Pudding Toasts, Roasts Michael Keaton

The Batman actor was “encouraged as hell” by the students around him during the 2026 Man of the Year festivities.

Most popular

Martin Nowak Placed on Leave a Second Time

Further links to Jeffrey Epstein surface in newly released files

What Bonobos Teach Us About Female Power and Cooperation

A Harvard scientist expands our understanding of our closest living relatives.

The Teen Brain

It’s a paradoxical time of development. These are people with very sharp brains, but they’re not quite sure what to do with them...

Explore More From Current Issue

Illustration of a person sitting on a large cresting wave, writing, with a sunset and ocean waves in vibrant colors.

How Stories Help Us Cope with Climate Change

The growing genre of climate fiction offers a way to process reality—and our anxieties.

Three climbers seated on a snowy summit, surrounded by clouds, appearing contemplative.

These Harvard Mountaineers Braved Denali’s Wall of Ice

John Graham’s Denali Diary documents a dangerous and historic climb.

Purple violet flower with vibrant petals surrounded by green foliage.

Bees and Flowers Are Falling Out of Sync

Scientists are revisiting an old way of thinking about extinction.