James E. Tokley Sr. isn't holding back his affinity for the English language. At 76, the Hillsborough County poet laureate has spent a lifetime curating a vocabulary that evokes both nostalgia and innovation. He maintains a particular fondness for words like "cantankerous" and "rapscallion," terms he embraced as early as three years old. These words he first encountered through the stories read to him by his mother still resonate with him to this day.
In his role, Tokley has continuously sought to fully explore and to share the richness of language. His dedication extends beyond mere words; it's an embrace of community and narrative that reflects the collective spirit of Hillsborough County. As reported by HCFL Gov Newsroom, Tokley describes his cherished words as "powerful words, words full of life," a sentiment that encapsulates his career and his contributions to the cultural tapestry of the region.
Over the decades, Tokley's achievements have become as much a part of the county's identity as the bay’s gentle lap against its shores. His poetry and prose are not simply recitations of ideas; they are imprints of the county's heartbeat, experiences woven into the fabric of the community. It's no surprise that his efforts have helped to elevate the county's literary status, and serve as a channel for voices both past and present.
While others may drift easily towards retirement at this stage in life, Tokley actively continues to engage his audience with creative vigor. This engagement is more than a career—it's a testament to his undying love for both the spoken and written word. "Cantankerous" and "rapscallion" might not be everyday parlance, but in the hands of Tokley, they become vibrant characters in the ongoing narrative he's dedicated himself to tell—and to keep on telling. As he navigates through his seventh decade, Tokley's zeal for language and community doesn't seem to merely persist but to actually grow, affirming his stature as a true steward of words in Hillsborough County.
For those eager to delve into the mind of this wordsmith, more can be found on Tokley's life and work at the HCFL Gov Newsroom, where his story of inspiration and creativity continues to unfold for all who treasure the power of language.
