A group of student poets recently met to honor women by “slamming” them at the microphone.
The Women’s Poetry Slam, sponsored by the Women’s Coordinating Council, took place Sunday night at the Clarence Brown Lab Theatre.
“A typical slam has poets that come up to the mic and read their material,” said Bonnie Buffaloe, WCC historian and the event’s organizer. “Our slam was a collaboration of open mic and featured poets.”
The slam was a part of WCC’s Women’s History Month.
“Their poems were supposed to be geared toward women’s issues, but the poets didn’t necessarily have to be women,” Buffaloe said. “Our theme for the month was ‘Women and the Arts’ so the slam seemed appropriate.”
The audience members got a chance to show off their original works at the beginning of the evening. The poetry topics ranged from traditional women’s issues to women and current events.
After a brief intermission, the three featured poets from the Knoxville Poetry Slam presented their work.
The first poet was simply known as Poetess. Her pieces were energetic and full of life. She spoke about different kinds of relationships and gave the audience plenty to consider.
“I’m waiting for the real generation to stand up and give heed to what you need,” Poetess said.
Crystal Armstrong, the second poet, spoke about her own experiences.
“My work is either from first-hand experiences or from someone around me,” Armstrong said. “It’s a way for me to express myself. I’ve noticed that a lot of people have common experiences, and poetry allows me to connect with others.”
A poet called C was the night’s final slam. His poetic peers described him as being the best.
While using beat box rhythms, C was able to rap his poetry about appreciating the lessons women have taught him. His final thought of the night was a tribute to his mom, his angel, for keeping him sane.
By the end of the night, the audience was more aware of the issues facing women in society, and they had a good time experiencing their peers’ work.
“It was kickass,” said Ben Dunlap, a freshman in business.
