The Poet Reads
If ever I read a poem aloud
it will not be from a podium's shelter
it will not be with dismembered voice
lilting eyes and knowing smile
you'll miss all that careful enunciation
you'll miss the design and alliteration
the hand-picked crippling dance academic
I won't be waiving an MFA
But laughter and thunder
that much I do promise
the wisdom of living the witness in death
the small cry of wonder surrender
in knowing both love and the mirror
blood from a wound
here at my table gluttony triumphs
I like this piece.
Hi Sam, glad you liked it.
Yes, indeed. Save us from public readings by wannabes. *
Jake, this was actually inspired by a "recognized" poet with major credentials, but just the person "wannabes" look up to and mimic.
Poems should have a bit of blood when read aloud or at least a pulse one can feel.
Oh I like this so much. It's so juicy...
"the wisdom of living the witness in death
the small cry of wonder surrender
in knowing both love and the mirror
blood from a wound
here at my table gluttony triumphs"
poetry, indeed! *
Thanks Joani, thanks Deborah!
Not public speaking lessons, Derek. Acting lessons. Anytime you stand in front of an audience, you need to be a performer. Teaching, reading before a group, whatever--it's all performing.
Some of my favorite performing writers: Susan Tepper, Meg Tuite, and Robert Vaughan--all a joy to see read live.
"But laughter and thunder
that much I do promise"
Excellent!
(I'll hold you to that!)
Hey Bill - Yes, performance. Ginsberg spoiled me for life. Thunder and laughter by all means.
"If ever I read a poem aloud," what a hopeful promise I hope indeed you do. Agree with what has already been said.*
Right on! *
Emily, Micheal, thanks for reading.