Public Program
Paul Yamazaki on City Lights Books and Beat Culure
Paul Yamazaki
Founded by Lawrence Ferlinghetti and Peter Martin in 1953 San Francisco’s City Lights has become a landmark independent bookstore recognized internationally for the quality of its inventory and programming and its commitment to progressive politics. Since 1955 it has also published cutting-edge poetry, fiction, and nonfiction of lasting artistic merit. Book buyer Paul Yamazaki and Menil Associate Curator Clare Elliott discuss the history and lasting legacy of City Lights Booksellers and Publishers.