Poet Lee Ann Roripaugh will examine modern women through poetic images during a reading of her verse in the South Dakota Agricultural Heritage Museum’s west gallery at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 17.

Her presentation is hosted by the Ag Museum, South Dakota State University’s English Department and the Women’s Studies program at State. Roripaugh, a professor of English at the University of South Dakota, has published poetry and short stories in numerous journals and anthologies.

“Historically, literary readings or socials were part of the social fabric of rural life,” said Carrie Van Buren, museum curator. “It was common for people to gather together either formally or informally to read and recite classical works or contemporary materials.”

During her modern-day poetry reading, Roripaugh will recite pieces from her third volume, “On the Cusp of a Dangerous Year.” Southern Illinois University Press released the collection in 2009.

Barnes&Noble.com describes the book as “at once provocative, humorous and bittersweet. “On the Cusp of a Dangerous Year’ is a pillow book for the 21st century, providing a candid and whimsical look into the often tumultuous universe of the modern woman.”

The author will bring books to sell and sign after her reading.

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