Notoriously, it is pretty common to not enjoy reading poetry. Spoken word poetry, however, is a performance and a celebration of words. People often find a stronger connection to spoken word poetry because they are actually watching someone passionately engage with their words, instead of simply reading them. If you want to give spoken word poetry a try, I suggest starting out with these.
1. "Relapse" - Blythe Baird
Blythe's words are simple and calculated but pack a meaningful punch.
2. "This is Not the End of the World" - Neil Hilborn
Neil Hilborn's poem OCD went viral with over 12 million views on Youtube- and rightfully so- but I'm partial to "This is Not the End of the World". Neil Hilborn is a powerful storyteller, and I recommend his work to everyone.
3. "10 Honest Thoughts on Being Loved By A Skinny Boy" - Rachel Wiley
The first line says it all.
"I say 'I am fat'. He says, 'No, you are beautiful.' I wonder why I cannot be both."
4. "Shrinking Women" - Lily Meyers
This was one of the first spoken word poems I encountered, and I was inexplicably touched by it. I suspect that many women will feel the same way.
5. "Today Means Amen" - Sierra DeMulder
If you're feeling low or uninspired, "Today Means Amen" may help give you a little hope. When I watch this, I get *instant* chills.
6. "Dear Future Lover " - Tasha Receno
This is for anyone who has ever felt hard to love.
7. "Unsolicited Advice to Adolescent Girls with Crooked Teeth and Pink Hair" - Jeanann Verlee
This powerful poem transports you back to those awkward adolescent years. It hurts to listen to, but in the best way possible.
8. "Scars/To The New Boyfriend" - Rudy Francisco
This poem paints a heart-wrenching and honest account of failed love. You can feel Rudy's pain as your own. My heart sinks every time I listen to it.
9. "When The Fat Girl Gets Skinny" - Blythe Baird
Blythe Baird is incredible. This poem is beautifully sad and difficult to hear, but so worth the watch.
10. "Black Rage" - Janae Jackson
Janae Jackson is full of fire and passion, and you can feel every ounce of it in her poetry.
11. Ode to My Bitch Face - Olivia Gatwood
Women are constantly being called out on their "bitch face". And I'm pretty sure we're all sick of it. As someone who frequently experiences this, I know I could really do without it.
12. Manic Pixie Dream Girl - Olivia Gatwood
Let's all just agree to do away with this "manic pixie dream girl" persona that was created by men, OK? Olivia Gatwood is unbelievably clever, and this poem is quite relevant to today's culture.
