I was introduced to magic that is a "poetry slam" my sophomore year of high school in creative writing. Written poems are just as important of course, but there's something about living and breathing poetry -- the way a phrase is said, the emotion that is conveyed by reading a poem out loud and the snaps that fill the air after a line -- that gives you goosebumps. If you haven't seen or heard slam poetry before, then you're missing out. Luckily, here are nine of my favorite slam poems that will make you immediately obsessed with this incredible art form.

1. "Ode to the Selfie" by Speak Like A Girl

Speak Like A Girl recently came to perform at Manhattan College's "Take Back the Night" where they performed "Ode to the Selfie." Check out their website for more fantastic slam poetry about feminism!

2. "OCD" by Neil Hilborn

"OCD" is the best example of a heartbreaking, emotional slam poem.

3. "Pretty" by Katie Makkai

We watched this for sociology class -- it addresses conformity and societal standards in a very catchy rhythm.

4. "To This Day" by Shane Koyczan

A creative use of poetry and animation.

5. Halloween

Group slam poetry is extremely powerful, especially these four girls talking about Halloween costumes with a twist.

6. "Lost Voices" by Darius Simpson & Scout Bostley

A lot of the time, poetry slams address topics such as sexism and racism in a creative way that makes you think.

7. "An Origin Story" by Sarah Kay and Phil Kaye

Or you have duos like Sarah and Phil, who perform an intertwining poem of their lives and their friendship.

8. "21" by Patrick Roche

Sometimes the performers put everything on the line, like Patrick Roche's life growing up in this chilling countdown from 21.

9. "To The Boys Who May One Day Date My Daughter" by Jesse Parent

Or finally, you can have hilarious slam poems by loud-spoken fathers.