James M. Nack

James M. Nack (January 4, 1809 – September 23, 1879) was a deaf American poet.

Biography In 1809, Nack was born in New York City to a poor family. Unable to afford school, Nack was taught by his sister and attended The Collegiate School (New York City) through the Dutch Reformed Church. Nack started reading at age four and was starting to write poetry at age 8. At age nine, Nack experienced a traumatic brain injury falling down a flight of stairs. After several weeks in a coma, Nack woke and was deaf. Later Nack lost his speech as well.

Despite his disabilities, Nack continued to write. At age 12, he authored a play.

Nack married Martha W. Simon in 1838.

Principal works The Legend of the Rocks, And Other Poems 1827 An Ode on the Proclamation of President Jackson 1833 Earl Rupert and Other Tales and Poems 1839 The Immortal: A Dramatic Romance and Other Poems 1850 The Romance of the Ring and Other Poems 1859