The local library was hosting an open mic poetry night. My daughter and her BFF wanted to go and insisted that I be the one to drive. They both knew that I had published poems in amateur anthologies and thought it would be a good idea for me to share a poem there. Reading your own verse to strangers ... sure. Who wouldn't be on board with that. 🙄
The first thing I learned was that open mic readings are not the same as a poetry bash. This event was a bash. The poetry being shared was all ranting, chanting ... like rap music without the throbbing bass. Angst and anger and grief were the themes. Verse after verse after verse. It tore at the emotions. It was spectacular.
But imagine attending a dessert potluck. You walk in and see the table full of blazing deliciousness. Baked Alaska. Peaches Flambe. Cherries Jubilee. You brought Rice Krispie treats.
I had the poetic version of that. I was not going to go up there. Until I saw the look in 2 pairs of young eyes. Smiling, excited for me ... proud.
So, for the first time, I recited an original poem to a live audience.
That was 2007. I haven't shared my work ... in person ... since.
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19 comments
Oh, ouch. Yes, I have been to open mic poetry readings where angst, anger and grief seemed like the only reason one would write poetry. Good for you for stepping up!
Thanks. If I ever do it again, I'll scope the audience better.
You obviously have a gift for imagery. Shame you haven't done it again, but glad you showed those young ones that sometimes you have to "just do it".
The poems I've posted here, over the years, have more than made up for not reading to a live audience.
Hey! I love Rice Krispie treats! Still, I find that brave and commendable, not anyone can recite poetry to strangers. Long distance high five!
I love Rice Krispie treats, too, and prefer them to "fancy" desserts. So, to be honest, I prefer my simple little verses over the things I heard that night
What was the audience reaction? Did you zhuzh it up a bit because of all the amped up emotions?
Geez ... it's been almost 20 years. If I recall, I did warn the audience that I would be sharing something more light-hearted.
And there's nothing wrong with a simple but tasty Rice Krispie square. 🤗👍
I don't regret doing it but I certainly wasn't encouraged to do it again.
Great
Thanks
You are so brave!! And sweet. Your daughter must have been so happy.
Hugs!!
She and her girlfriend enjoyed the evening.
It takes courage to stand in front of a mic in a room full of strangers.
But your naughty Xmas song album would be a hit! 😂
There wasn't actually a microphone, but the concept was the same. I can only imagine how squeaky I would've sounded with a mic!
Guess you decided to stick with the singing version of open mic night. I do so adore the HNW versions of that!
I'll recite poetry live again before I'd ever sing in public!
You did good that night. You have a lot in common with rap artists. I'm now thnking of a new username for you, DJSuperBJ?
And by the way, I think you were very brave that open mic night. Good on you!
But not so brave that I ever did it a second time.