Does it hurt to slam a poem?

Walt Whitman might appreciate the fact that slam poetry takes a lively road. Don't expect to sleep through it, though, because slam poetry is anything but subdued. This isn't anything like a poetry reading. As part of the EWU intern staff promoting the poetry slams for the past two years, I can tell you that these are definitely exciting events. Sure it's great to experience the work and wisdom of published authors here during Get Lit!, but the poetry slams are an excellent opportunity to experience some true local talent.



What should you expect? For the youth slam (ages 5-12), you should expect some animated skits from very talented emerging writers. Don't be surprised if the stage is overtaken by dancing bananas or animals. And some of them will absolutely blow your mind with their command of language. Hearing a fifth-grader turn a metaphor in on itself or make the sound of a word into a living creature is pretty amazing.

What about the Teen Slam? This is for the 13-18 age group. Well, expect some beat-boxing and expect volume--lots of it. (FYI: use your hands to form a box in front of your mouth and create a rhythmic series of bass-line noises). Expect a performance. Expect to be jolted by fresh language and creative twists. Yeah, I know the teen slam is at the Empyrean coffee house, but you won't need the caffeine to stay awake. Expect to be assaulted by words. Poetry will slam into you.

And the College Slam? That brand new, squeaky clean college slam, omplete with plasticy smell? Hmm. To be honest, we aren't exactly sure what to expect. We wanted to give the big guys (and girls) a chance to play too since the kids seemed to be having a great time. But it is yet to be seen what comes of it. Words. I can guarantee some words strung together in unique ways...ways that will... Well, just come and check it out for yourself.

Slamming April 13, 14, 15. Check the website for details: www.ewu.edu/getlit