Spoken word Poetry is a 'word-based performance' that goes beyond the written form. It's a blanket term for any poem that can be read aloud. However, spoken word poetry takes on a more formal approach than Slam poetry. The most easy to comprehend definition is; Spoken-word poetry is written word, spoken aloud.
Unlike the written form, in addition to the writing skills, here the speaker is required to focus on sound, memorization, body language, gestures, pronunciation and eye contact with the audience as well.
It takes passion, skills and the ability to weave emotions into words in a way that the audience feels exactly what the performer wants them to feel. To evoke the intended set of emotions is the ultimate goal.
If you have always wanted to learn the skills and write your own spoken-word poem, check out the following tips that may help you embark on a journey of writing and knowing this passionate art form:
Find out what moves you?
Always look for subjects/topics that you are passionate about. When you talk about something you are not forced to talk about, the performance looks effortless. Look for the thing that moves you. It is an important element of spoken word poetry.
Draw your audience in
The best way to catch your audience's attention is to be relatable. For example, if you start with a line like 'I know what you are thinking', it will immediately grab the attention of your audience and will keep them intrigued and hooked.
Theatre of the mind
Focus on the imagery. Use your power of imagination to conjure vivid imagery in your audience’s mind. Try using literary devices to create comparisons and better construction of meanings.
These tips are shared by FNP Media’s poetry artists. Their deep understanding of spoken word poetry stems from years of experience and interactions.
Good luck to the poet in you!
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