Spoken Word Night

Whew.  It's done.  I survived. 

I went to my first Spoken Word night this evening, and as planned, got up and spoke. I followed after several others...actually, I think it turned out that I was the last.  All who preceded me were obviously quite practiced at not only writing, but also, presenting.  Their poems were as good as any I've heard.  Really.  I'm once again amazed at the diversity and dimension of creative spirit here in Floyd.

I couldn't help but feel transported to earlier times when coffee houses and poets often came together.  The days of Nikki Giovanni...ee cummings...Rod McKuen.  The only thing different was that back in those times, the room would have filled with smoke.      

My turn came.  Judy says I did really well. I know she's supposed to say those kinds of things, but I'm pretty sure she was sincere.   

Here are the words I spoke:

I stand here in defiance of my anxiety.
I stand here to declare one more time in this summer of firsts
that I am who I am and
I am more than I have let myself be...
Physically, intellectually, emotionally.

So, here I go again -

bellying up to the bar
taking a swig
giving it a go
putting my money where my mouth is
letting it all hang out
diving in -
trusting that I will be in tact...that I will be in tact...when done.

You'll soon come to know that my words are
short in length
simple in vocabulary
direct in meaning....
They are uniquely me.

The poem I've chosen to share is called "Fox Squirrel":

there he was, dying
on a day when life seemed abundant.
as I stood there helpless
I found myself examining his face for pain
knowing well that someday
I too would be experiencing death.
but even in this moment of anguish
I admired his full tail
and beautiful coat.
It seemed the right thing to do.

There you have it.  And here I go to bed and good rest after a full day. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comments

[Beth]

Wow,June, it really took a lot of courage to do that. Speaking in front of people is one of my biggest fears. But I have a feeling it will get easier and easier for you as time goes on. And I like both "Fox Squirrel" and your wonderful preamble to it. Well done!

[colleen]

Such a direct and poignant poem.

You put me to shame. I'm on a lag system with my posting. Should have something on this fun filled evening by Monday!

So glad you came!

[June]

Thanks Beth & Colleen. Now, the morning after, I feel a sense of satisfaction that I kept my word to myself and did it. It certainly helped to have such a warm and receptive audience.

[June]

Thanks Beth & Colleen. Now, the morning after, I feel a sense of satisfaction that I kept my word to myself and did it. It certainly helped to have such a warm and receptive audience.

[bluemountainmama]

good for ya! the poem is says so much, june. i reallly like it....and your introduction. very well done!

[susan]

your courage shines through, your 'just do it' attitude is inspiring

i think i liked the introduction to the poem best!

way to go girl!

[CountryDew]

Bravo! You did a difficult thing and I'm impressed. Public speaking is #1 on my fear list, I think.

Very nice poem, good images. A little sad, though. Poor squirrel!