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Public AddressIndividual
Original Spoken Word Poetry
Original poetry performed with rhythm, imagery, and emotional truth. Literary craft meets stage performance.
Time
5 minutes maximum (typical)
Prep
N/A (prepared)
Format
Individual
Round structure
Opening image
Establish voice and world in the first 20 seconds.
Arc
Build tension, turn, and resolution through stanzas/sections.
Landing
Final lines should echo and linger.
What judges look for
- Original language and fresh metaphors
- Emotional honesty without melodrama
- Performance that serves the poem
- Rhythmic control and vocal variety
- Cohesive theme
Ballot criteria
Literary meritCritical
Language, structure, originality.
PerformanceCritical
Voice, body, emotional connection.
CohesionHigh
Theme and arc clarity.
Practice tips
- Cut clichés ruthlessly; replace with specific images.
- Mark breath points and stress patterns on the page.
- Perform for people who don't know the story.
- Record and listen for monotony.
Common mistakes
- Screaming instead of dynamics
- Abstract language with no concrete images
- Performance that overpowers the text
- Unclear narrative or theme
Drills for this event
Poetry craftPerformanceImageryVoice