Because I am a poet! Not a spoken word artist.
People have described me as a spoken word artist on many occasions and some of those same said people have gone on to call me various names. All because I insist that I want to be known as a poet. Often these titles are used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing!
One of the most meaningful (and often thrilling) methods to expose your innermost to the world as a writer and artist is through poetry. Solely using the art of writing is a fantastic way to be explicit in the way you view society and life. Exposing yourself to the world. And poetry is one of the loveliest ways to do so. But, as mentioned before, there’s a term that sits on the edge of tongues for many, that is regularly used as a synonym for poetry – spoken word. Despite both existing to help you define your thoughts and feelings, in truth, they’re unique.
Written words transport you to the artists heart
“You likely think of hidden meanings and deciphering some kind of mysterious code...”
As with any form of art and writing, ultimately, an avenue is created for you to express yourself. To say that poetry and spoken word are equal is like stating that sculpting and painting are identical. Though they serve a similar purpose, the way they accomplish creative goals is totally unique. For spoken word and poetry, the principle is the same.
When referring to poetry – You likely think of hidden meanings and deciphering some kind of mysterious code (like breaking down a poem in school) lurking between the lines. All with the desire to be interpreted by your own outlook. If you ever go to poetry nights or readings, you know that there are frequent pauses between lines. The phrases' many meanings are respectfully given time to sink deep into your mind. And that’s the primary purpose of those breaks. This gives you the necessary time to ponder on and perhaps digest what’s been said. You may need to study a poem multiple times and, on every occasion, you could find many other meanings within the poem.
Tell me again... what are the differences between spoken word and poetry.
“...these two written art forms do have their similarities, they are effective and special in the way they allow you to express yourself...”
When it comes to spoken word, they're pieces that are written with the desire to stimulate a reaction from the crowd. There aren’t hidden meanings, and the references are less difficult to catch. Think, there are far less riddles. When there’s a break in the lines during a performance, it’s usually to give opportunity for the audience to respond to your last line, rather than to permit the words to settle and burrow into your mind. This is because there isn’t any need for the phrases to go any deeper – they are straight forward in their meaning.
While these two written art forms do have their similarities, they are effective and special in the way they allow you to express yourself and serve specific purposes. Poetry is more private; the artist's thoughts and emotions are brought to life. Spoken word also contains the artist's thoughts and emotions, however, it’s written in a way designed to provoke a reaction from the crowd – The theatre does something to similar effect.
So to answer the initial question in the shortest possible answer (thanks for reading this far down). Trust me, I greatly appreciate you taking the time.
Is there a difference between spoken word and poetry? Yes!
Stay blessed and keep on loving!
Dyamund D
Comments