Anne and Kirk Douglas

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. — Kirk Douglas is done with writing.

The rakish screen legend with the famously dimpled chin made that abundantly clear on a recent afternoon at his Beverly Hills home, a few days before the release of his poetry collection “Life Could Be Verse: Reflections on Love, Loss, and What Really Matters.”

“To me, this is my best book and my last book,” said Douglas, seated next to Anne Douglas, his wife of more than 60 years.

It was a pronouncement that came up more than a few times. The “Spartacus” star, who just turned 98, has 87 films to his name, 11 books and is one of the last living members of old Hollywood. By now, the world probably thinks it knows Kirk Douglas.

But in some ways, “Life Could Be Verse” is his most personal work, featuring poems from throughout his life along with essays and private family photos that help paint a picture of Douglas as a man, a father and a husband.

In an industry not known for domestic stability, Kirk and Anne Douglas may be one of the great Hollywood romances.

“I’m a romantic guy,” Douglas said. “You think I’m always shooting guns with John Wayne, but I can be romantic. And, listen, we’re sitting here. We have been married for 60 years. A few poems help.”

Romance is just one of their secrets. Over the years, they have devoted themselves to philanthropy.

“Our goal has been, since we’re able to do that, to help a little bit and to share what you have with those in need. That has been a very big bond between us,” said Anne Douglas.