Lula Thompson is a critically acclaimed poet and essayist known for her powerful explorations of identity, race, and womanhood in America. Born in 1990 in rural Mississippi, Thompson's work is deeply rooted in her experiences growing up in the South. Her poetry is characterized by its raw honesty, vivid imagery, and innovative use of form.

Thompson's debut poetry collection, "Cotton & Concrete," won the National Book Award for Poetry in 2018. She has since expanded into essay writing, where she tackles social issues with the same lyrical intensity found in her poems.

Notable works:

• "Cotton & Concrete" (poetry collection)
• "Meridian Lines" (poetry collection)
• "The Weight of Shadows" (essay collection)

Thompson is also a respected voice in literary criticism and frequently contributes to major publications.