On April 24, The Shack played host to the “Mightier than the Sword” Poetry Slam, put on by the INDIE P.O.E.T.S. and the Missouri Union Arts Council.
Devin Chavers, who is also the current president of the group, founded the INDIE P.O.E.T.S. for people who enjoy writing, poetry, spoken word and song writing.
“I enjoy events like poetry slams because it showcases the talent we have that goes beyond sports, music and dancing,” Chavers said. “I believe poetry is a powerful art. It can accomplish whatever the writer wants it to accomplish. Words hold so much value and meaning that we often times don’t realize how big of an effect they can have on us. The goal I have for my poetry is to touch somebody at least once, and to also leave some type of legacy for others to follow and do better than.”
Tuesday’s Poetry Slam was an expression of creativity and passion as well as friendly competition between fellow bards. Five contestants shared their original poems. They ranged from topics of religious beliefs to self confidence.
Even though all of the writers were winners, the judges, who were selected from the audience, chose the top three poets. All three won gift cards to Target for their hard work. The first place winner was Naomi Daugherty.
“The inspiration for my piece was my realization of the importance of affirming your self-worth,” Daugherty said.
Her poem was confidence-boosting for the audience. Throughout the poem, she spoke of how she, like so many others, tried to make herself “perfect” by societal standards. She then realized how beautiful each individual is for who they are and said she believes people should recognize that everyone is beautiful in their own way and that the only standards they have to meet are their own.
Daugherty said she wants to continue to write poetry and express herself through her words and at the same time touch people on a personal level.
“Poetry is a powerful art,” Daugherty said. “It gives your emotions the power to speak and gives you the power to speak to your emotions. If I empathize with at least one person through my poetry, then I am accomplished.”
The INDIE P.O.E.T.S. infiltrate MU with their words and passion, and the participants each render their own goals for their poetry.
“My biggest goal with my words is to paint a picture that people have never seen before,” slam participant Dominiece Jackson said. “I want to take my originality and make people feel intrigued about the power that comes from words and how they can be an influence in all aspects of life.”
