Poets frequently work in solitary spaces, writing alone. However, as part of the process of becoming a successful writer, many poets do public readings of their work or participate in performance poetry, spoken word performances or poetry slams. One of these is distinctive from the others -- and that is the poetry slam. The slam is the only performance that is actually competitive. Poets perform, are judged and compete against one another. Often, a winner is chosen by the audience. Whichever way a poet shares work publicly will increase a poet's readership and an opportunity to get poetry into the world.
Instructions
1. Develop your own work of poetry. This involves reading a wide swath of other poets' work, studying forms and styles to understand poetry better.
2. Develop an ear for poetry specifically written for performance. This type of poetry relies heavily on sound and musical elements. A poem written for reading aloud and performance should have a noticeable rhythm, subtle rhyme schemes, alliteration and assonance, in which the vowels in words echo, and consonance, in which the consonants in words echo. Alliteration occurs when the initial sounds of words are repeated.
3. Attend poetry slams, poetry readings and spoken word performances often. This will help you develop an ear for what makes a successful performance poem, as well as learning what type of style and presence connects best with audiences.
4. Become part of a poetry group that sponsors or attends readings and performances. Often, these groups have critique times as part of the group. This can be invaluable to writers at any stage of a career. Getting effective and constructive criticism can hone your art.
5. Get your feet wet with readings and slams. Once you have a piece you think is ready to share -- take the stage and jump in. You will refine your stage gestures, your use of voice, your eye contact, facial expressions and pauses when you connect with listeners. Your poems will likely change through the process.
