Iranian-born poet Kaveh Akbar’s writing has earned him respect and rising fame. Founder and editor of the poetry magazine Divedapper, Akbar has appeared on NPR and his work has been published in the New York Times on several occasions.

“I would describe his poetry as incredibly risky and precise,” WSU English professor Kimberly Burwick said. “Beautifully lyrical, but at the same time with a narrative undertone.”

Akbar is currently living in Florida. He works as a visiting assistant professor at Purdue University. He has written two books, both of which were published last year, Burwick said.

“He’s just a really up-and-coming writer,” she said.

Burwick, the director of the Visiting Writers Series at WSU, invited Akbar to present.

“It’s been a long time in the making,” she said.

Akbar will present at the Elson S. Floyd Cultural Center. Cheyenne Gaspar, coordinator of facilities and event services at the center, said Akbar’s presentation will be held in the venue’s main space, or the “living room.”

Akbar will read and discuss his poetry and his book, “Calling a Wolf a Wolf” from 5:30-7:30 p.m. today. The event is free and open to the public.