In this powerful segment of spoken word (3 min) the poet Ariana Brown describes her experience with language, how language becomes a tool of power historically and in every day experience. Notice the effect of “hearing” this poem. How would the experience of this poem be different if it were on the page? Which lines […]
Sarah Kay: “If I Should Have Daughter”
As a form, spoken word focuses on delivery and on content. In this TedEd video (less than 3 min) on spoken word artist Sarah Kay discusses her own experience of learning her craft at the Bowery Poetry Club and offers this advice: Choose your language carefully Pick a story you want to tell Having the […]
Staceyann Chin: “If Only Out of Vanity”
Staceyann Chin’s Spoken Word presentation on Def Poetry, “If Only Out of Vanity,” (3 min) showcases her use of dramatic language and physicality and fearlessness on stage and in her work. Here, Chin contemplates whether or not she will feel her outspoken political stances were “worth it” in a later point in her life. This […]