Poetry Slam!
Take one microphone, twelve poets, and three judges, and one MC, stir gently, and what is the result? Grand Rapids Public Library's first Poetry Slam!, As part of the month-long National Poetry Month Celebration on Tuesday, April 11th, 34 people gathered at the Main library to read, hear, and judge poetry. Under the direction of veteran Slam Master Greg Bliss, twelve poets read their work, three judges awarded scores after each poem, scores were tallied, and the poet who won first prize, Laura Yahya, received a $50.00 gift certificate from Schuler Books and Music. Runners up Allie Merrick, Ivan Jenson, and Della Wilson received hardcover copies of current bestsellers.
Many in the crowd, both poets and audience members, hoped that the Library could sponsor Poetry Slams on a regular basis. Let us know what you think by posting a comment. For more information about National Poetry Month events at the Library, call
988-5400.
Check out Laura Yahya's poem, "Standing Out in a Crowd" in the link below
Standing out in a crowd
I am attracted to those LOUD
Words of knowledge written across your face
OBVIOUSLY A man of taste
Are you feeling me?
Because I am definitely feeling you
In any case, wanting to
Talk to me
Tell me
Is that how you look at everyone?
Or is that sparkle in your eye just for me?
Maybe not destiny
But ooh, I'd like it to be
Mentally, we must connect on that level of intimacy
But as of right now, I surrender whatever ill thoughts I have as I get caught up in a NEW rapture
You capture that part of me
That not every one gets to see;
My ATTENTION
Full submission
As I listen
To the ideas glisten
I'll be yours on one condition
That my suspicion of this superstition
Won't cause a collision of the competition as we break
For an intermission
I give you permission
To wrap me in your ecstasy
From that moment on, you mesmerized me; Hypnotized me, Rejuvenized me
So walk with me
Talk with me
Let me get to know you?
So that I can show you
How to get to know me
Comments
I think this is a great idea. Unfortunately, I couldn't attend this one, but would definitely go to future events!
Posted by: Rachel | April 13, 2006 04:55 PM