This summer, I will be working in collaboration with the National Poetry Centre on a piece of research that attempts to better understand the function of spoken word poetry as a vessel for communication. I want to explore the ways in which sound, rhythm and performance contribute to the communication of spoken poetry, and then to use my understanding of its unique communicative capacities to examine how spoken word is used to tackle both personal and political issues. The research will be supported by an initial analysis of the historical function of spoken word, but will be grounded in a focus on the current poetry scene in Leeds. We hope to develop a better understanding of the function of open mic groups and poetry events in the area that may bring to light ways in which further opportunities could be offered to local poets.

Sound, rhythm and performance as integral to spoken word poetry:

Through an examination of significant groups and figures in the history of spoken word (the Beat Poets, Linton Kwesi Johnson, Bob Dylan, etc.), I will develop a piece of preliminary research into the unique, 'unprintable', nature of spoken word poetry. With this understanding of the ways in which the aural landscape of spoken poetry contributes to a poem's 'meaning', I will begin to look more closely at current trends in local performance poetry in order to better understand how local poets may be inspired by but also deviating from the traditions of spoken word.  

Spoken word as a means for unheard voices to be heard:

Often, spoken word poets discuss deeply personal content, and I believe that spoken word poetry does offer a way for people to find their voice and share their concerns in a productive and non-judgmental setting. My research will examine the current ways in which poetry events in Leeds offer spaces for self-expression, and perhaps begin to identify ways in which such spaces can be expanded and extended towards more people.

Spoken word poetry as a political act:

Through an exploration of such historical groups and figures as I have mentioned, I will develop a hypothesis about spoken word poetry as a vessel for the communication of political messages. I will then begin to explore the role that politics plays in spoken word events in Leeds and, through interviews and collaboration with local groups, will attempt to identify ways in which poetry's capacity to open minds and spread messages can be further utilized.

However, it will also be important to maintain an awareness of how open-mic events are so liberating precisely because they are not so 'exposing' or formal as official publication. Many people are enticed by the 'unpolished' nature of spoken word poetry, and this is something I will be eager to protect during my exploration of how further opportunities and publicity can be offered to those poets who want it.