Dang! Poetry Night Was A SLAM!

15 March 2021Maddy W, Hope ‘21

On Friday, March 5th, the Foote Centre Field House was filled to maximum capacity with the excited chatter of talented poets. The second Slam Poetry Night of the year, once again, brought students, from Ellis to Hope, together, to celebrate and recite original and borrowed poems in an inclusive and welcoming space.

Flocking to hear Mr Collis’ omnipotent and captivating recitation, this time in the form of a poem disdaining the daily drag of Covid, students were reminded that slam can be as much about expressing anger as it can be about soul-searching. Thereby, gaining a greater appreciation for passionate presentation combined with quality poetry. Alongside our supreme leader, several students bravely volunteered to share their own works too.

Speaking at Slam is a great experience, and veteran Slammers are hugely grateful to anyone willing to be vulnerable in front of a crowd. As Robin C, Alex ‘22 aptly explains “The poetry slam gave me a place to share my darkest secrets, in a funky, non-confrontational kind of way”. Robin’s poem, among many others, was written from the heart and deeply connected to many people in the room, creating the candid atmosphere that makes Slam so unique.

Ranging from current events to retellings of personal struggle, with a pinch of relationship drama thrown in – and we cannot forget Nazar’s meaningful contribution – Slam is a “welcoming, relaxed and fun environment for people to share whatever type of poetry they feel like” says Nina B, Alex ‘22.

For the 30-odd students in attendance, Slam Poetry Night can surprise the audience when unexpected emotions bubble up during a heartfelt recitation. I have a few embarrassing memories blubbering as both an audience member and performer.

A fresh face at Slam but already a gifted poet. Davey L, Hope ‘22 was one who bravely shared a part of her story and inspired others to do the same. Davey is “glad to have been able to participate in such an inclusive event with lots of different people presenting different types of poems”. She, along with all other Slam supporters, are the ones to thank for upholding the true meaning of Slam: learning how words and poetry can bring people together.

Special thanks to Slam Poetry Night founder Mr Collis, Slam Captain Olivia B, and stand-in Co-Ordinator Zosia S.

Maddy W, Hope ‘21

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