Spoken word poetry has taken live performance to a whole new level. We have concerts and stand-up comedy, but nothing is quite like seeing people use their raw energy and emotion to command the stage and drive powerful truths of the human condition.
Spoken word is poetry performed for a live audience, often using other art forms such as theatre, dance, and music. There are no set rules for how to perform, so artists can choose to use any types of slang or word play, persona or tone, rhyme or repetition, and gestures or facial expression to communicate their message. Modern-day spoken word poetry took root and flourished in the Black community in the 1960s with The Last Poets, a group of musicians and poets born out of the African American Civil Rights movement who may have also influenced the creation of hip-hop. Even today, many spoken word pieces strive to spotlight injustices, political causes, and social reform. Below are some astounding pieces that do just that:
1. Brown Boy. White House: "We like our borders like our picket fences. White washed."
Amir Safi's chilling account of the racism he faced in post 9/11 America.
</center><span id="selection-marker-1" class="redactor-selection-marker" data-verified="redactor"></span>
2. Shrinking Women: "You have been taught to grow out; I have been taught to grown in."
Lily Myers details the differences in expectations boys and girls are taught and how teaching our daughters courage and fortitude is just as important as teaching our sons.
</center><span id="selection-marker-1" class="redactor-selection-marker" data-verified="redactor"></span></center>
3. OCD: "I want her back so bad, I leave the door unlocked."
Neil Hilborn’s raw and powerful account of his battle to
control his mental illness while in the midst of a budding relationship.
</center>
4. 10 Honest Thoughts on Being Loved by a Skinny Boy: "I say, ‘I am fat.’
He says ‘No, you are beautiful.’ I wonder why I cannot be both."
Rachel Wiley highlights just how detrimental the restraints society creates are for people who don't conform.
</center></center><span id="selection-marker-1" class="redactor-selection-marker" data-verified="redactor"></span>
In the mood to attend a poetry slam in Houston? Catch Write About Now's Open Mic Night at AvantGarde this Wednesday at 7:30 PM. 'Like' their page on Facebook to stay updated. They're also hosting THE Neil Hilborn on October 16th at 8 PM at the same place. If that's not enough for you, the Texas Grand Slam Poetry Festival is back! On October 9th and 10th, 42 poets from all over the country will compete for a Texas-sized belt buckle and grand cash prizes. 'Like' their page on Facebook to stay in-the-know. But wait. Are you a University of Houston student? The Council of Ethnic Organizations (CEO) at UH has invited Japanese Spoken Word artist G Yamazawa to perform on September 30th at 12 PM. What are you waiting for? Come see these incredible artists and maybe be inspired to perform your own life-changing piece!
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
