The Magic of Performed Poetry

Above is one of my favorite slam poetry performances by Anis Mojgani called "Shake the Dust." I find this kind of poetry, especially this poem, very moving because it is so emotional. I find time and time again in my own experience that there are some emotions which are better communicated in person through body language and human presence.  It's a whole other world of communication when someone is actually speaking versus when you're just reading words on a page. It's weird, but when I watch slam poetry I feel like I am watching someone at the pulpit on fast sunday who is giving a really heart-felt and spiritual testimony. That comment isn't meant to be sacreligious! I just feel emotional I guess when I hear these poets because, like people on fast sunday, they are bearing their souls. What these poets say has been pre-formulated and practiced to perfection like an actor's part, which makes it a fine-tuned piece of art. Despite its pre-formulation, slam poetry still achieves an extremely personable feel when performed. All of that structure and practice and performance mixed with poetry is bound to be amazing! It's like all of my favorite art forms are mixed together. I am a definite fan of slam poetry!