Caffeinated Book Dragon reviewed Take the Mic by Marc Kelly Smith
Not a "how to write poetry" book; it's geared toward expression
4 stars
I think this is a great guide to learning what exactly slam poetry is, what it isn't, the basic rules for what can be done in a slam, and how to make oneself an effective slam poet.
I discovered slam poetry a few years ago and was blown away by the emotion in what I was seeing for most poems. Some were great, some not so much, some amazing--but they all had something to bring to the table. I wanted to learn how to write like that, with great expression and emotion. Granted, the performances are what help it, but you need good writing to set the standard, otherwise it'll suck.
I dunno if I'd ever get up on stage, but I did get lots of great ideas on how to loosen up and let feelings flow, work with my words and rhythm to have them say what I want. …
I think this is a great guide to learning what exactly slam poetry is, what it isn't, the basic rules for what can be done in a slam, and how to make oneself an effective slam poet.
I discovered slam poetry a few years ago and was blown away by the emotion in what I was seeing for most poems. Some were great, some not so much, some amazing--but they all had something to bring to the table. I wanted to learn how to write like that, with great expression and emotion. Granted, the performances are what help it, but you need good writing to set the standard, otherwise it'll suck.
I dunno if I'd ever get up on stage, but I did get lots of great ideas on how to loosen up and let feelings flow, work with my words and rhythm to have them say what I want.
If you're looking for a "how to write poetry" guide, this is not the book for you. As the authors say, there are hundreds of others out there that will be more helpful. But there is some dedication to the basics, what they're called and how they translate in the slamosphere (so to speak).
Worth a shot if you wanna get it--I was curious where it all came from, and am glad I read it. Now I'm encouraged to write more (even if I currently stink, because we all have to start from somewhere)