Amy Gerstler

Described by the Los Angeles Times as "one of the best poets in the nation," she won the 1991 National Book Critics Circle Award. Gerstler was editor of the 2010 edition of the anthology Best American Poetry.

Gerstler wrote an advice column for the Reader in 2000-2002 under the name of Aunt Trudy.

Articles by Amy Gerstler

RSS

Mom

The woman we never forget.

"Careful, Ma; don't spill your soup," I warned. "First time you spill, that's it — you're going to the home.” Mom's reply was immediate. "I know. I've picked out what I want to take with me."

Talent for Joy

I have ever been the little old lady my mother will never be.

All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That is his. — Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest Since differing with Oscar Wilde must constitute literary blasphemy, I regret ...

When friends fall into bed and strangers occupy personal space

Dear Aunt Trudy, Leonard (not his real name) and I have been friends — just friends, mind you — since college. Neither he nor I have ever married, although both of us have come close. ...

A sexist hubby and a cheating wife

Dear Aunt Trudy, My husband is the least sexist man I know. He's polite and sweet and good-humored. Unfortunately, he has a best friend who's one of the most sexist men I've ever met. Frankly, ...

Advice for anyone about anything

Here's my dilemma. Should I write an advice column? Here in this publication? Do I have the right, the inclination? The, ahem, balls? Dare I ate a peach? Seeking and giving advice is as integral ...