Who is Tommy Pico and what are his primary professional roles?

Tommy Pico is a Native American writer, poet, and podcast host. He is affiliated with the Kumeyaay Nation and was born on December 13, 1983.

Where did Tommy Pico grow up, and what is his tribal affiliation?

Tommy Pico grew up on the Viejas Reservation, which is part of the Viejas Group of Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians, a Kumeyaay tribe located near San Diego, California. His Kumeyaay name translates to 'bird song'.

What was Tommy Pico's father's role within the Viejas Reservation community?

Tommy Pico's father served as the tribal chairman for the Viejas Group of Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians.

Describe Tommy Pico's early creative interests and activities during his childhood and teenage years.

From a young age, Tommy Pico showed an early interest in creative expression. He began writing comics when he was five years old, and during his teenage years, he explored further creative outlets by creating zines and writing poetry.

What was Tommy Pico's initial educational path, and how did it change?

Tommy Pico initially attended Sarah Lawrence College with the intention of pursuing a pre-med track, aiming to become a doctor and return to serve his reservation community. However, he ultimately decided against a career in medicine.

What led Tommy Pico to New York City, and what did he do there before focusing on writing?

After deciding not to pursue medicine, Tommy Pico moved to New York City. There, he worked as a barista in the Williamsburg neighborhood while simultaneously beginning to write poetry, marking the start of his literary career.

Where has Tommy Pico lived, and when did he relocate to Los Angeles?

Tommy Pico resided in Bushwick, Brooklyn, in 2008. More recently, in 2019, he moved to Los Angeles with a friend.

What significant roles did Tommy Pico hold in the literary community in 2011 and 2013?

In 2011, Tommy Pico was recognized as an inaugural mentor in the Queer/Art/Mentors program. Subsequently, in 2013, he was honored as a Lambda Literary Fellow in Poetry, highlighting his early contributions and recognition in the literary field.

When was Tommy Pico's first book published, what is its title, and who published it?

Tommy Pico's first book, titled *IRL*, was published in 2016 by the small press Birds, LLC.

How is the structure of Tommy Pico's book *IRL* described, and what literary tradition does it draw upon?

The book *IRL* is uniquely structured as one continuous text message. This format draws inspiration from the ancient tradition of epic poetry, adapting its narrative scope to a modern medium.

From whose perspective is *IRL* narrated, and what is the significance of this character?

*IRL* is written in the first-person narration from the perspective of a fictional character named Teebs. Teebs serves as Pico's alter-ego and is used as a nickname within the narrative, paralleling Pico's own experiences and voice.

What was the critical reception of Tommy Pico's debut book, *IRL*?

*IRL* received significant critical acclaim upon its release. It was recognized on several best-of-the-year lists for 2016, indicating its impact and positive reception within the literary community.

What award did *IRL* receive in 2017?

In 2017, Tommy Pico's debut book, *IRL*, was honored with the Brooklyn Public Library Literary Prize, further cementing its critical success.

What is the title of Tommy Pico's second book, when was it published, and by whom?

Tommy Pico's second book, titled *Nature Poem*, was published in 2017 by Tin House.

Does *Nature Poem* also feature the character Teebs, and what themes does this book explore?

Yes, similar to *IRL*, *Nature Poem* is also written from the perspective of Pico's alter ego, Teebs. The book utilizes the epic format to delve into and challenge common stereotypes of Native Americans, particularly the notion of them being inherently 'noble savages' deeply connected to nature.

What was the critical reception of *Nature Poem*?

*Nature Poem* also garnered critical acclaim, following the successful reception of Pico's debut work, *IRL*.

What are the titles of the books that followed *Nature Poem*, and how does Pico categorize these works?

Following *Nature Poem*, Tommy Pico released the books *Junk* in 2018 and *Feed* in 2019. Pico considers these four books—*IRL*, *Nature Poem*, *Junk*, and *Feed*—collectively as a series known as the 'Teebs tetralogy'.

What is the 'Teebs tetralogy'?

The 'Teebs tetralogy' is the term Tommy Pico uses to refer to the series of four books he has published: *IRL*, *Nature Poem*, *Junk*, and *Feed*. These works are linked by the recurring character Teebs, who serves as Pico's alter-ego.

Besides his books, what other literary projects is Tommy Pico involved in?

Tommy Pico co-curates the live reading series titled *Poets With Attitude* alongside writer Morgan Parker. This series provides a platform for contemporary poets.

What podcasts does Tommy Pico co-host, and what are their general themes?

Tommy Pico co-hosts two podcasts. The first is *Food 4 Thot*, which explores topics such as queer identity, race, sex, relationships, literature, and pop culture. The second is *Scream, Queen!*, co-hosted with Drea Washington, which focuses on discussions about marginalized people and horror films.

In what documentary series did Tommy Pico appear in 2022?

In 2022, Tommy Pico made an appearance in the documentary series titled *Queer for Fear: The History of Queer Horror*.

What creative projects did Tommy Pico undertake in 2018 related to public spaces?

In 2018, Tommy Pico was commissioned to create original soundscapes. These were designed for New York City's High Line park and also for a walking tour in Seattle, developed in collaboration with Vignettes Gallery and Gramma Press.

For which television shows has Tommy Pico worked as a writer?

Tommy Pico has contributed his writing talents to television shows, including the critically acclaimed series *Reservation Dogs* and the science fiction comedy *Resident Alien*.

What recognition did Tommy Pico receive from the Sundance Institute in 2021?

In 2021, Tommy Pico was selected as a Sundance Institute Fellow, a prestigious recognition that supports emerging artists in film and media.

What major awards has Tommy Pico received for his work?

Tommy Pico has received several significant awards. His debut book, *IRL*, earned the Brooklyn Public Library Literary Prize in 2017. His second book, *Nature Poem*, won an American Book Award in 2018 and was a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award. Additionally, he was honored as a Whiting Award Winner for poetry in 2018.

What are the publication details for Tommy Pico's book *IRL*?

*IRL* was published in 2016 by Birds, LLC. Its ISBN is 9780991429868.

What are the publication details for Tommy Pico's book *Nature Poem*?

*Nature Poem* was published in 2017 by Tin House. Its ISBN is 9781941040638.

What are the publication details for Tommy Pico's book *Junk*?

*Junk* was published in 2018 by Tin House. Its ISBN is 9781941040973.

What are the publication details for Tommy Pico's book *Feed*?

*Feed* was published in 2019 by Tin House. Its ISBN is 9781947793576.

What is the significance of the image caption provided in the source material?

The image caption describes a photograph of Tommy Pico taken at the 2018 Texas Book Festival. This caption helps identify the subject of the image and provides context for when and where it was taken.

What authority control databases are linked to Tommy Pico's Wikipedia page, and what do they represent?

Tommy Pico's Wikipedia page is linked to several authority control databases, including VIAF, WorldCat, the United States Library of Congress, and Yale LUX. These databases provide standardized identifiers for individuals, helping to ensure consistency and accuracy in cataloging information across different libraries and archives.

How does Tommy Pico's work, particularly *Nature Poem*, engage with Native American identity and stereotypes?

In *Nature Poem*, Tommy Pico uses the epic poetry format to explore and challenge the persistent stereotype of Native Americans as inherently connected to nature, often referred to as the 'noble savage' trope. His work critically examines these portrayals and their impact on contemporary identity.

What is the overarching narrative structure or concept that connects Tommy Pico's books *IRL*, *Nature Poem*, *Junk*, and *Feed*?

Tommy Pico considers his four published books—*IRL*, *Nature Poem*, *Junk*, and *Feed*—as a connected series called the 'Teebs tetralogy'. This suggests a thematic or narrative continuity across these works, likely centered around the alter-ego character Teebs.

What role did Tommy Pico play in the Queer/Art/Mentors program?

Tommy Pico was an inaugural mentor in the Queer/Art/Mentors program in 2011. This program connects emerging artists with established mentors in the LGBTQ+ community.

What is the meaning of Tommy Pico's name in the Kumeyaay language?

In the Kumeyaay language, Tommy Pico's name translates to 'bird song'.

What specific topics are covered in the podcast *Food 4 Thot*, which Tommy Pico co-hosts?

The podcast *Food 4 Thot*, co-hosted by Tommy Pico, delves into a variety of subjects including queer identity, race, sex, relationships, literature, and pop culture. It serves as a platform for discussions on these intersecting themes.

What is the focus of the podcast *Scream, Queen!* co-hosted by Tommy Pico?

*Scream, Queen!*, co-hosted by Tommy Pico and Drea Washington, centers its discussions on marginalized people and their relationship with horror films. The podcast explores themes of representation and identity within the horror genre.

What literary prize did Tommy Pico receive in 2018 for his poetry?

In 2018, Tommy Pico was recognized as a Whiting Award Winner for poetry, acknowledging his significant contributions to the field.

Tommy Pico Wiki: The Poetic Lens: Tommy Pico's Narrative Worlds

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Introduction

A Contemporary Literary Figure

Tommy Pico, born December 13, 1983, is a distinguished Native American writer, poet, and podcast host. Hailing from the Kumeyaay Nation, his work critically engages with identity, culture, and contemporary life, often through innovative narrative forms.

Cultural Heritage and Voice

Pico's heritage as a member of the Viejas Group of Capitan Grande Band of Mission Indians (Kumeyaay) deeply informs his artistic output. His Kumeyaay name, meaning "bird song," reflects a connection to nature and expression that resonates throughout his oeuvre.

Multifaceted Artistic Practice

Beyond his acclaimed poetry collections, Pico is a significant presence in digital media. He co-hosts influential podcasts and has contributed to television writing, demonstrating a versatile approach to storytelling and cultural commentary.

Early Life and Influences

Reservation Roots

Pico spent his formative years on the Viejas Reservation in California, a setting that provided a foundational context for his later explorations of identity and belonging. His father served as a tribal chairman, underscoring the importance of community leadership and heritage.

Early Creative Expressions

His artistic inclinations emerged early. By age five, Pico was creating comics, and during his teenage years, he delved into self-published magazines (zines) and poetry, laying the groundwork for his future literary career.

Transition to Urban Artistry

Initially pursuing pre-med studies at Sarah Lawrence College with the intent of serving his community, Pico ultimately shifted his focus. He relocated to New York City, working as a barista in Williamsburg while actively developing his poetic voice and engaging with the city's vibrant literary scene.

Creative Output

Poetic Collections

Pico is renowned for his distinct poetic voice, often employing an epic structure and a first-person narrative through his alter-ego, Teebs. His major works include:

IRL (2016): Published by Birds, LLC, this debut work is structured as an extended text message, drawing parallels with epic poetry and exploring fictional events through the character of Teebs. It garnered significant critical acclaim and the Brooklyn Public Library Literary Prize in 2017.
Nature Poem (2017): Released by Tin House, this collection continues the narrative of Teebs, challenging stereotypes of Native Americans and their relationship with nature. It received an American Book Award and was a finalist for the Lambda Literary Award.
Junk (2018) and Feed (2019): These subsequent works, also from Tin House, complete what Pico considers the "Teebs tetralogy," further developing his thematic concerns and stylistic innovations.

Podcast Engagements

Pico extends his influence into audio media, co-hosting prominent podcasts that delve into culture, identity, and social commentary:

Food 4 Thot: A podcast exploring themes of queer identity, race, sex, relationships, literature, and pop culture.
Scream, Queen!: Co-hosted with Drea Washington, this podcast examines horror films through the lens of marginalized perspectives.

Television and Multimedia

Pico's creative reach extends to television writing, where he has contributed to acclaimed series such as:

Reservation Dogs
Resident Alien

Additionally, he appeared in the 2022 documentary series Queer for Fear: The History of Queer Horror and has created commissioned soundscapes for public art installations like New York City's High Line park.

Accolades and Recognition

Literary Awards

Pico's significant contributions to literature have been recognized through various prestigious awards and fellowships:

Brooklyn Public Library Literary Prize (2017) for IRL.
American Book Award (2018) for Nature Poem.
Finalist for the Lambda Literary Award (2018) for Nature Poem.
Whiting Award Winner (2018) for poetry.
Inaugural mentor in the Queer/Art/Mentors program (2011).
Lambda Literary Fellow in Poetry (2013).
Sundance Institute Fellow (2021).

Bibliography

Published Works

A curated list of Tommy Pico's primary literary works:

IRL (2016, Birds, LLC: ISBN 9780991429868)
Nature Poem (2017, Tin House: ISBN 9781941040638)
Junk (2018, Tin House: ISBN 9781941040973)
Feed (2019, Tin House: ISBN 978-1-947793-57-6)

External Resources

Official and Media Presence

Further engagement with Tommy Pico's work and career can be found through these external platforms:

Official Website
Tommy Pico at IMDb
FEED: A Garden Soundscape (The High Line)
VIGNETTES + GRAMMA PRESENT ‘A LONE’

Authority Control

Standardized Identifiers

These identifiers ensure consistency and facilitate research across various databases:

VIAF: 159148207808700341328
WorldCat: E39PBJkdf8qTRXPvXj9fDgfQbd
U.S. Library of Congress: no2016159728
Yale LUX: bcbf89b7-f1ce-4eef-9614-bbb7873afad3

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Tommy Pico Wikipedia page

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Important Notice Regarding AI-Generated Content

This document has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence model. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily the Wikipedia article on Tommy Pico, and has been refined to meet academic standards for a Master's level audience. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness based on the source material, it is intended for informational and educational purposes only.

This content is not a substitute for direct engagement with primary sources or professional academic consultation. The information provided should be critically evaluated, and users are encouraged to consult original works and scholarly analyses for a complete understanding of Tommy Pico's contributions to literature and culture. The creators of this page are not responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions, or interpretations derived from this AI-generated content.

Tommy Pico: A Literary Cartographer

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Introduction ℹ️

🖋️ A Contemporary Literary Figure

🌍 Cultural Heritage and Voice

💡 Multifaceted Artistic Practice

Early Life and Influences 🌱

🏞️ Reservation Roots

✍️ Early Creative Expressions

🏙️ Transition to Urban Artistry

Creative Output ✨

📚 Poetic Collections

🎙️ Podcast Engagements

📺 Television and Multimedia

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

🏅 Literary Awards

Bibliography 📖

📜 Published Works

External Resources 🔗

🌐 Official and Media Presence

Authority Control 🏛️

🗂️ Standardized Identifiers

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice Regarding AI-Generated Content

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Introduction

A Contemporary Literary Figure

Cultural Heritage and Voice

Multifaceted Artistic Practice

Early Life and Influences

Reservation Roots

Early Creative Expressions

Transition to Urban Artistry

Creative Output

Poetic Collections

Podcast Engagements

Television and Multimedia

Accolades and Recognition

Literary Awards

Bibliography

Published Works

External Resources

Official and Media Presence

Authority Control

Standardized Identifiers

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice Regarding AI-Generated Content