Hi dear poet friends. Today it’s no specific prompt, just link up your one poem. Visit others and hang for a while here at the bar.
Just to spark some discussions I wanted to talk about audio and poetry. Poetry is meant to be read aloud, as a matter of fact some argue that the existence of poetry is to listen to it. Before prose existed, before the printed books, all stories was set to poems so they could be remembered by heart.
Today poetry is being performed again as poetry slams, and on festivals, and for us online poets we can make our voice heard with online tools like Youtube and soundcloud.
Have you ever tried to give readings? Do you ever listen to poetry? Have you used any tools? Have you been to a festival?
Hey, should we even do a live performance here at the bar sometimes?
I’m ready, I’m here to listen?
And for the poetry today:
- Enter a link directly to your flashback poem and your name by clicking Mr Linky below
- There you will find links to other poets, and more will join during the next 48 hours
- Read and comment on other poet’s work, we all go here to have our poems read
- Promote your site and poetry you like on social media of your choice
- Have fun
dVerse 
Welcome everyone.. Happy Thursday.
Happy Open Link Night everyone! Looking forward to seeing you out on the trail!
Love to have you here Kelly.. Open Link always bring nice surprises. I look forward reading yours.
I Love reading my poetic artistic expressions to family members.. and every time I read it is different and it helps me to see deeper into it.. as far as human emotions go.. and the art of song.. whether fast or slow.. is a natural way i speak anyway.. and part of my adaptation to speaking in a sing song way as a non-verbal autistic child.. not speaking until age 4.. but oh how i love the audio experience of poetry and song.. and of course visual poetry too.. in both still and moving images.. in all creative ways.. and of course with open link comes my own style and continuously chaining form of epic freest verse poetry.. exploring school days and all stuff associated with that more.. more.. more.. incorporating all of what technology has to offer in freest poetic expression as well.. be back later to read and comment on all through the next few days.. as today is dance day and night wild and free offline as much as possible on Thursdays for me..:)
I love to hear more about how you read to your family members..
Thanks Bjorn.. really the only folks that are interested in poetry at all in my family are my wife.. mother.. and sister.. poetry is not really big in the deep south red state area where i live.. unless it comes straight out of a revised bible.. smiles.. but anyway.. when i visit my mother Helen.. a published poet herself who started writing in her mid 50’s like me.. and unfortunately she stopped writing after several years.. which i hope to extend past that.. but anyway.. she is well versed in poetry forms and she is not a free verse kind of poet.. in fact her poems would likely fit online much better than mine.. and i guess one day.. i will include some of them on my blog as a guest poet.. ANYWAY.. she can’t last through an entire epic free verse expression of mine.. as i can go on reading hours on end without problem.. but she likes what i read.. and it is something we can share together.. and my wife likes some of it.. and my sister does too.. but some of it.. makes no sense to them.. and better sense to my mother… an experienced poet.. no matter how hard i try to explain it to them.. and that is okay.. haha!.. as there is much of my life that i hated poetry.. thinning of it.. as useless and have a very hard time getting any meaning out of it all.. but as they say.. use it or lose it.. and practice.. and i must practice harder than most… as i have little poetry in me from before the last two years or so.. and honestly it is the last thing in the world i think i will ever be able to do.. or want to do including reading any poetry out loud at all.. smiles again.. but change and using something new is the best of life to me.. now..:)
Anyway3.. i thought about adding my verbal poetic expression reading online.. but hehe!.. it’s overwhelming enough to the humans senses as it is.. i guess.. smiles..:)
For now.. i guess2 what i do.. is ‘enough’…;)
i think it’s totally cool when poetry is performed or read aloud – brings it to life even more
Somehow poetry is meant to be read aloud.. I actually listen sometimes to youtube or spotify where there are readings available…
Very timely discussion, Bjorn, as one of the most talented performance poets in the UK, Kate Tempest, was just talking recently about the ‘snobbery’ of some of the poetic world about the spoken word poetry, judging it to be too simplistic.
http://www.theguardian.com/books/booksblog/2015/aug/19/kate-tempest-slams-conventional-poets-disdain-for-performance
I think it’s complementary to ‘on the page’ poetry and really want to try more of it. Reading my own poetry aloud is a start, but I want to write specifically for performance too.
I think that is an excellent point.. I think sometimes when you record your own poem.. also performed poetry is also different.. just like songlyrics is different.
MarinaSofia: cool link. Never heard of her. I am sharing some of this with my kids. I loved this quote in the article:
Two more poets that say something similar are these:
“I favor poems that keep the obstacles between you and [the reader] to a minimum “
–Ted Kooser (The Poetry Home Repair Manual)
“Most people ignore most poetry because most poetry ignores most people.”
–Adrian Mitchell (poet)
Many writers here will say, “I write for myself”. [reader be damned == or , more kindly, “I let the reader get out of it what they want.] Also, many don’t care that they are not communicating. But still, they want lots of people to read them. Odd. Well, odd to me. But then, lots of folks like that.
Meanwhile Kate Tempest and those like here will save short writings (call it poetry, songs or whatever) from the snobs (she writes of) who love fancy, obscure, allusive, self-involved writing.
Hi! I’ve always wondered about how people do these recordings and attach to their written posts. When I was in high school, and later during university and for a few years after, I did give readings and participate in them. When I was underage, our next door neighbor used to escort me to readings in the “coffee house” scene at the university and a few around town. I participated some in those. But in later years, I have stopped. I’m not a performance person and prefer people to just read my poetry or if they read aloud, then they read and not me. I write my poems in my head before they go down in hard copy and so, I feel they need to stay in someone’s head, if not just mine. LOL, not the most social of persons….at a party, the corner or balcony or patio stander.
I use soundcloud, and record using my Mobile Phone, but other use their PC.. but it would be interesting to hear how other does it. I have been to a poetry festival once.. and that was fun…. 🙂
I use Soundcloud on my laptop and use the built in camera when I ad (wordpress) video too.
Thanks as always! I’ve never given any readings, although I’ve read some of my limericks on the phone during radio interviews.
For a while I was recording and uploading audio versions of my limericks on my blog. But so few people actually listened to them, that I got demoralized and stopped doing it.
I think many times we read poetry at places where you cannot listen.. however recording and listen your self.. 🙂
I have not (yet) had the chance to read/recite my poetry at any sort of venue, other than one workshop. I desperately want to, but where I live, the “open mike” nights all fall on a night that I am already booked…someday, though!!
Ha.. imagine how many possibilities Stockholm offer.. I might actually start an event myself.. but to use the online tool is a great way to get it going.
Hello, fellow poets. I have heard poetry read by the author, at least once. I enjoyed it all the more as the poet provided context and other information about what he read.
There is a lot of info added in the tone.. that’s why I like to listen to youtube etc.. the Alicia Key’s reading is a great example I think.
I might try that “context” idea next time I record. I’m curious how many others also like that sort of thing added?
I went to a writers conference last week and there was a Night Owl clinic that was poetry reading. I read two of my poems, one of which was the poem I wrote in response to Brian’s philosophy prompt. Listening to the other poets was very fun.
I’ve thought about doing an audio version of my poetry book, but maybe I should start with trying SoundCloud to record some individual poems to post on my blog, like some other dVerse poets do.
Now I’m off to decide what poem to link today and then read some poetry with my lunch. Peace, Linda
Love to hear that you actually read poetry from our little group here.. Love that thought.
I have had opportunities to read my poetry in the past at ‘open mic’ events. I was afraid to do this the first time or two; but after listening to others’ read (and realizing my poetry was as good as theirs – smiles) I got over the fear & really enjoy the experience. It seems in my area there are not as many open mic opportunities as there were some years ago..sadly!
I have not done the recording of my poetry to accompany my blogged poetry, nor do I usually take time to listen to the poems others include, as they are often time-consuming, and I just don’t have the time. Sigh. I prefer the written version for understanding anyway, if I am honest.
Interesting topic to discuss though.
It takes a lot of training to read a poem so it improves.. compared to reading it i think.. but I often read your and other’s poetry aloud.. maybe we should do recordings of each other’s poems at one time.. 🙂
Yes, in some cases, maybe one WOULD gain a different understanding if one read someone else’s poem aloud. I do think, however, that there may be people who are more auditory learners and people who are more visual learners. I would be among the ‘visual.’
I was terrified when I did my first spoken word. Hell I was scared doing my first recording and you can delete those! Anyway its kinda addicting. Adrenalin? Our Open Mics are few and far between now too.
I felt a little stupid doing my first recording.. still waiting for my first possibility to do an open mike… for real
Fun conversation. I perform most of my poetry – either at open mics or poetry slams. It makes you really listen to the words you write and find the natural breathing places – its really an art form. It does not always translate well to the page as it does not have the same intonation. As Marina pointed out, there is a certain level of snobbery by some poets to performance poetry. I would rather be performed than published personally.
Not playing tonight – but will pop through and read a few.
I fully agree.. but also poetry to be performed is often written a little different… it would be great to have some recordings…
It will be good to have you pop in and out. Always you are welcome friend X.
I haven’t linked up for… oh jeez, like a year. Yikes. I linked a poem (using my real name even :P) from my new blog “Open Letter To The Universe”. I recently did a reading. I find myself on a goddess path so it was called GNO (Goddesses’ Night Out). We served champagne and chocolate and had a guitarist to set the mood. Between readings I encouraged the guests to share their experiences and feelings. There was laughter and more than a few tears. Sharing my work in that way, took this personal hobby of mine to a different level.
I love going to spoken word and feeling the emotions of other poets. There is an energy exchange you can’t get from the page. There are some poems though, that don’t benefit from being read aloud. But when its good…. yum.
I always love when poets return.. and you have been missed… What a perfect way to share poems…
Can’t wait to get in there and read/listen to some of my old favorites and see who’s new.
Hi! Nice to meet you! This sounds a lot like my first reading ages ago in one of the first “vegetarian/hippie” restaurants in our state. I sat at the table with my friends, read, took a break. during the break, people wanted to talk, to share, to express. It was quite overwhelming but it was so good to get that connection. I’ve gotten shy in my old age and found on one occasion when I went to a slam, looked at like an alien by the youngsters. I stay home now and doubt I will even record any. But that’s okay. I leave the floor to folk who read well and have the vocal and personality talent. That GNO sounds just amazing.
Hey everyone,
Hope you’re having a lovely week so far, sharing my poem “Silence” hope you guys like it 🙂
I agree.. poetry is meant to be read out loud 🙂 and always appreciate readings of other Poets 😀
Lots of love,
Sanaa
I just read your poem aloud.. loved it…
Thank you!! Likewise 😀
I’ve read at a local indie book store but never have been able to figure out how to link audio. I did enjoy reading to a live audience–to be able to see their response. Thanks for hosting, Bjorn, and introducing this topic. Off to catch up reading now.
I would love that to.. but there are so few Indie book stores… but maybe I could do something with the local English Bookstore…
Go for it!
If you have the time.. listen to Ken Higginson’s daughter reading.. what a great way to present his funny poem..
I removed your Graeme Cooper’s link as it lead nowhere. If you read this, please link up again.
HA.HA.HA. Have beaten Google into submission and now able to comment on blogger posts. It isn’t a poem but it was good to go outside and shout to the sky – Vini, vidi, vici – google is toast. and so good to comment on all these wonderful posts.
Ha..better to recite HOWL.. 🙂
My friend and I, the friend who recently died – we used to howl at the moon together. We’d sing Werewolves of London and then arrrrroooooooo!!!!! I haven’t felt like howling in a few months. I think the whomping of google deserves a huge ARRRRROOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!
I have the same problem and haven’t been able to comment on #19 today, one of my “assigned.” I’ll try again and do it under my defunct google account. Grrr.
I would gladly banish Google to Siberia if I could.
I wish I knew how to record some of my poems. I’ve been reading with Tillybud this week and have appreciated how much more can be found in a performed poem than simply by reading it. I’ve linked an old poem in desparation, as I don’t feel I’ve written much that;s worth while lately. I;kk be back to read in the morning.
Actually with something like soundcloud and a laptop it’s fairly easy to record.. would love to hear you Viv
With this I want to go to bed.. thank you for being with me.. there’s free beer in the bar, and the pretzels are still warm.. have fun.
Have a good night Bjorn and see you tomorrow ~
Well I swore I would never speak or read publically, because as Hemingway said, “A writer needs to write and not to speak.” HOWEVER the past year and a half, I have read poetry publically, out loud locally in libraries and coffee shops. Next Wednesday I am reading a poem and speaking on why I write…with 4 other local writers. My voice used to shake and I could not do it…now, it’s sort of a joke that I am the most lively reader of the bunch…lol. Then again we have a majority of …ahem, elderly writers as well. Either way…I am hoping to see an actual poetry reading and slam or poetry event soon! Aside of the ones I have been in I have not. Looking forward to growing more poetically speaking with my experience and exposure for the readings and “Spoken WOrd”. 😉
WOW on the Alecia Keyes video! THat was powerful. I would love to see the others who read/spoke etc. Mercy me, I think I love that type of forum!
What a performance by Alicia, thanks for sharing Bjorn ~
I have seen that when poetry is read out aloud & performed, it becomes more forceful, passionate & powerful ~ I admire poets who can bring their words to life, roaring with energy & emotions ~
Happy Thursday and OLN everyone ~
I agree. the performance really add something to what you can never capture if it’s written…
I’ll be back and make my rounds asa I’m back from work…
There are many great pieces this week… 🙂
I am so sorry, I didn’t get a chance to read any but a couple of your poems last night in a whirlwind of last-minute packing and taking the cat to the holiday ‘pension’. We are about to set out now to drive for many, many hours to go on holiday, but best wishes to everyone and apologies again for not being around.
Have a wonderful vacation.. and hope you come back with the energy of words untold.
Bjorn, brother man, as you know, you have touched on one of my favorite topics. As a former actor, performing my poetry is second nature, but I had to have my children train me to be able to do it for the blog. It started years ago when I asked Tess Kincaid how she did it, & she steered me to Div Share (which had developed tech problems last year). These days I start out recording my poem first over at Garage Band, & converting it to an MP3, then it is transferable. Thanks to you, sir, & others, I then got into SoundCloud. So now I download my Garage Band MP3 to SoundCloud, then transfer it from there to my blog, or others; easy peasy. I, also, bought a professional microphone to improve the quality of the recordings. So if a luddite like me can do it, each of you out there can do it!!! I wish more folks would give a listen to my recordings on my blog. I listen to all I encounter out on the trail. You heighten the whole poetic experience for crying out loud. First you read the written word, then you listen to the recording; two separate experiences. Then you listen to the recording as you reread the poem. For several years now I have attended open mic performances, & kind of have built up a following of folks who dig the way I perform; I’m known as the Beat Poet of Tacoma, WA.
I have liked some of your recordings, Glenn, but length will steer me away from both reading and listening. Especially if the reading is just a continual soaking in images instead of an unfolding. (if you catch my drift)
I like your readings.. and I love that you add them.. I have never tried to record with any other tool than directly with my mobile.. but I had thought of buying a special mic…
I liked doing the audio.
But interestingly, so far 12 people have visited my poem and posted their comments but only 2 people listened to the poem.
Performance poetry is cool because people actually go to listen.
Poetry blogs often have comments with the subtext: “I was here, so now read me, read me.” Ouch, little cynical, eh?
Anyway, I enjoyed the audio. Maybe next time I will do ONLY audio and see what the results are.
By the way, I loved the Alicia Keys read above — I showed it to my kids. I had never heard of her, the uncultured fool that I am, my kids laughed.
But my 13 yo daughter loved to see a different sort of poetry which she could relate to. My 15 yo son said, “Yeah Dad, look at this cool poetry:”
Watsky Poem (rap)
Twas amazing.
I listened Sabio.. And there’s some pretty cool poetry done by Rap artists.. 😉
By the way, it might get more listeners if you use the wordpress embed tool.. then you get a player directly on the web-page instead of directed to the soundcloud page.. just an idea
Hey Bjorn – no, yes, no, no, to your queries. 🙂 But maybe after a few cold ones? Have a good weekend. ~
I once read a poem with friends after a few cold ones. I was fun,
Soundcloud has helped my poetry a lot. I first learned about it from seeing Bjorn use it on his blog to good effect. I was a little nervous at first, but I have gotten much better at reading my poems out loud because of it. I now use soundcloud as one of the steps in my process of revision, if there is something that needs to be changed it usually becomes very obvious after reading and listening to the poem. I was initially very shy about going to a poetry reading, I always wanted to do it but I did not have the confidence to actually try. After about a year of recording poems and having them on my blog, I have become comfortable with my voice and recently attended two poetry readings where I knew no one, and read two poems at the first, and four poems at the second. I discovered that I really like sharing my poems out loud with live people that are not my family! So, I highly recommend venturing into the realm of recording your poems, even if you do post them on your blog for all to hear. The nice thing about souncloud, apart from being free, is that you can install the app on your phone, which allows you to record your poems anywhere. I love that feature.
I meant to say, “even if you do not post them on your blog for all to hear.”