Speak Out! An Introduction to Slam Poetry in 3-Parts

Were you dazzled by Amanda Gorman's inauguration poem? Curious to learn what slam poetry is all about?  Join us for a 3-part series that explores three themes poets are slamming about today; love, the earth, and mental health.  Get ready to get inspired and get writing!  Taught be former WPL employee and San Miguel County Poet Laureate Elissa Dickson.

1. More Than Disney Love (March)

Tired of eye rollin' at all that fairy tale love in pop songs and Disney movies?  Ready for the real? In this class, we'll watch some of the most lit slam poets of our era speaking truth about the raw, messy, beautiful, heartbreaking forms love takes.  We'll explore not just romantic love, but family love, self love, and love of places.  Then, using fun prompts we'll dive into our own love beliefs, experiences, and relationships  So come put pen to paper with others in an inclusive nurturing (virtual) environment and write creatively! All backgrounds and levels welcome.

2. We Speak for the Trees (April)

"There's still plenty of hope for saving our planet, so let's plan it!" says slam poet Solli Raphael who at 12 years old beat out all adults to become Australia's youngest every National Slam Poet. In this class, we'll watch some of the most lit slam poets of our era slamming on vital issues; climate change, environmental justice, and indigenous land rights. Then, using fun prompts we'll dive into our own passion for protecting the earth and its inhabitants. So come put pen to paper with others in an inclusive nurturing (virtual) environment and write creatively! All backgrounds and levels welcome.

3. Check Your Head (May)

"And here you are living, despite it all" writes award-winning poet Rupi Kaur.   Come celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month!  In this class, we'll watch some of the most inspiring slam poets of our era throwing their hearts down and sharing their experiences with mental health. Then, using fun prompts we'll dive into our own minds and unearth wisdom we've learned "living, despite it all". So come put pen to paper with others in an inclusive nurturing (virtual) environment and write creatively! All backgrounds and levels welcome.