Unheard Words


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 What's Real by Metis


   Part one (-aspiration and identity)

   Part two (-choosing race)

   Part three (-my own walk)

   Part four (-real what?)

   Part five (-something different)

   Part six (-things today)

 
Q. Are their other spoken word / performance poets that inspire you. And, how did you come-up with this style of writing and how would you describe it? I wouldn't say that there are any poets that influence me - as this form of poetry allows me to tap into a totally authentic voice inside myself. More specifically, the process really involves getting my 'Self' out of the way so as not to obstruct the natural flow...There are spoken word artists whom I highly respect and am greatly inspired by though: well known poets such as Saul Williams and Taalam Acey are both gifted - they were two of the first poets I saw really push the boundaries and actualize their ability. And, far more influential for me personally, is up and coming UK artist 'Talent' - an exceptional poet that I've worked with from the beginning - one who constantly pushes me to realize my potential.
 
Q. Do you think that 'creative writing in performance' is an art form that's on the rise of in decline? As for creative writing in performance - I am most familiar with Spoken Word, so I can only speak to that: but Spoken Word poetry is most certainly on the rise. More venues are becoming available, the poetry is becoming more advanced, and it is reaching ever-wider audiences. The steady rise of showcases, competitions, etc...in the UK is a testament to that evolution. A lot of popular music has become very formulaic, hence the appeal of an artform which is still in its initial stages in terms of commercial impact and is, above all else, passionate, individual and unique.


Unheardwords.com speaking to Metis (2006)