Joshua Clover, University of California, Davis poet died at age 62 – Cause of death

Joshua Clover, a poet, scholar, and revolutionary voice in University of California, Davis has died. The literary and academic world is mourning the death of Joshua Clover, a celebrated poet, scholar, and activist, who passed away on April 26, 2025, at the age of 62. Clover’s powerful critiques of capitalism, his groundbreaking poetry, and his fierce commitment to revolutionary politics leave a lasting legacy across multiple fields.

Joshua Clover death

Born Joshua Miller Kaplan on December 30, 1962, in Berkeley, California, Clover grew up immersed in an intellectually vibrant environment. His mother, Carol J. Clover, is a renowned scholar in film and literary studies. Joshua later adopted her maiden name professionally, carving his own path in academia and literature. Clover attended Boston University for his undergraduate studies before enrolling at the prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop, where he earned his MFA. His early exposure to radical thought and the arts would deeply influence his career trajectory as both a poet and political theorist.

A Prolific Career in Poetry and Academia

Joshua Clover’s debut poetry collection, Madonna anno domini, won the Walt Whitman Award from the Academy of American Poets in 1996, immediately cementing his place among contemporary American poets. His poetry, known for blending lyrical beauty with political urgency, was featured in several editions of The Best American Poetry. Clover’s music and cultural criticism also appeared in Best Music Writing, further showcasing his versatile talent. Beyond poetry, Clover made significant academic contributions. His groundbreaking book, Riot. Strike. Riot: The New Era of Uprisings (2016), explored the evolution of political protest in capitalist societies, offering a critical framework that influenced both scholars and activists. He was a sought-after speaker and thinker in Marxist theory and political economy, holding fellowships with the Cornell Society for the Humanities and the University of California Humanities Research Institute.

At the University of California, Davis, Clover served as a professor of English and Comparative Literature. Students described him as a dynamic, challenging, and inspiring educator who encouraged critical engagement with literature, history, and contemporary social movements. Clover was never content to remain within the ivory tower. His political activism was fierce and uncompromising. A vocal critic of capitalism, police violence, and systemic inequality, he often stirred controversy with his public statements. Clover’s unapologetic stance on issues of social justice made him both a revered and polarizing figure.

Despite facing backlash — particularly for comments critical of law enforcement — Clover remained steadfast in his belief that meaningful change required direct action and systemic critique. His activism, like his writing, reflected a deep commitment to envisioning a radically better world. Following news of Joshua Clover’s death, tributes flooded social media and academic circles. The Materialist Institute for Research, where Clover was deeply involved, issued a heartfelt statement:

“We are devastated to say that our comrade, teacher, and friend Joshua Clover passed away last night. He is irreplaceable; we will miss him forever.”

Joshua Clover obituary

The Nation magazine, for which Clover regularly contributed columns, honored his memory, emphasizing his impact as a sharp cultural critic and beloved professor. Students from UC Davis shared emotional tributes, highlighting the profound influence Clover had on their academic and personal lives.

“He was one of the most memorable and enlightening professors I ever had. His classes changed the way I see the world,” one former student wrote on Reddit.

Many remembered Clover not only for his intellectual rigor but also for his wit, humor, and genuine care for his students. Joshua Clover’s work — whether through poetry, scholarship, or activism — challenged conventional narratives and inspired countless individuals to think critically about the world around them. His fearless voice championed justice, equality, and radical transformation. As the world reflects on his extraordinary contributions, Clover’s writings, particularly Riot. Strike. Riot and Madonna anno domini, continue to serve as essential texts for anyone seeking to understand the deep connections between art, politics, and social change. Joshua Clover’s passing marks the end of a powerful chapter in radical thought and literature. Yet, his influence endures, motivating new generations to dream, write, and fight for a better future.