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Printer-Friendly ModeExpressions honors Black History with Poetry Slam
February 13, 2006 —
The third annual Black History Poetry Slam provided students a chance to come together to express themselves in honor of Black History Month on Thursday night.
The event was sponsored by the poetry group Expressions, Student Life, and Program Board, and was hosted by students Tacarra Ford and David Benson, Jr., both founding members of Expressions.
The Multi-purpose Room was converted into a more intimate setting, complete with small, round tables covered with white tablecloths. The single candle in the center of each table, surrounded by silk roses, completed the overall setting and atmosphere for the poetry event.
Starting off the night, guests were given the opportunity in an open mic session to read their original poetry. The poets who read during the open mic session were applauded, not by the thunderous clap of the large group of people in the room, but by the snapping of fingers, a tradition of poetry readings.
After a short intermission, in which refreshments and appetizers were offered, the actual poetry slam began. Each contestant was allowed to perform one original piece that was judged on creativity, performance, eye contact, and originality.
There were many different types of poems read, with topics ranging from the hurricanes that hit New Orleans to remembering Black History.
Once the contestants were completed with their performances, the votes were tallied up. To keep the audience occupied during this time, Ford, the Expressions president, read her own untitled piece. At first uneasy about reading the poem, Ford was reassured of her talent with a standing ovation as the audience showed their appreciation of what she had expressed.
Ford announced that the winner of the Slam was "Train," who received the grand prize total of $75. Second place went to Levellyn Hunter, who won $50. Heather Price placed third and took home $25.
Expressions brought a special guest to this year's Black History Poetry Slam as the concluding part of the evening. This spoken artist, Future, who ranks ninth in the world, was introduced by his close friend, Hunter.
"The most well-known poets making millions are intimidated by him because he is so good at writing and what he does," Hunter told the audience.
Future has spoken all over the world and has even appeared in a movie on BET.
Even though he showed up late, Future put on a spectacular performance. During one of his poems, he quoted, "Poetry has become less about self expression and more about pleasing others."
He explained how poetry has changed so much and that the audience should strive to write for themselves and not for other people.