Baltimore’s own John Waters, a celebrated filmmaker and writer, has achieved a new milestone by publishing his first poem in The Atlantic. Known for his unique storytelling in films like “Hairspray” and “Pink Flamingos,” Waters now adds poet to his list of accomplishments.

The poem, titled “Catch,” appears in the May 2026 issue of The Atlantic and explores Waters’ childhood experiences with sports and the existential questions they raised. The poem’s publication fulfills a long-standing goal for Waters, who turned 80 in April. He shared this achievement during a keynote speech at the Association of Writers & Writing Programs 2026 Conference in Baltimore, encouraging fellow writers to pursue their dreams regardless of age.

Embracing Beatnik Culture

Waters’ poem reflects his lifelong fascination with beatnik culture, which he discussed on the “Las Culturistas” podcast. He recounted how the beatnik movement, with its emphasis on poetry and counterculture, influenced his early artistic endeavors. Waters’ connection to this era is evident in his work, including casting beatnik characters in his films.

In “Catch,” Waters candidly writes about a childhood memory involving his father and a game of catch, raising questions about masculinity and societal expectations. The poem resonates with readers who may have faced similar dilemmas in their youth.

Looking Ahead

With his poem now published, Waters expressed interest in hosting “Saturday Night Live,” a goal he shared with podcast hosts Bowen Yang and Matt Rogers. Known for his wit and creativity, Waters believes he could bring a unique perspective to the show.

John Waters’ journey from filmmaker to published poet highlights his enduring influence on American culture and his commitment to exploring new creative avenues. As he continues to inspire others, his work remains a testament to the vibrant artistic spirit of Baltimore.

Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.