PPCHS students began their way walking out the campus gates on February 6th to arrive at the library auditorium for the long-awaited Poetry Slam. As students entered through the door, they met up with their friends and sat down in their desired seat in front of the stage, or made the line to get some cookies and coffee before the performances began. Once everyone was settled, National English Honor Society (NEHS) President Shivraj Singh, welcomed the audience as the poetry readings and Poetry Out Loud recitation contestants made their way on stage.
Ranging from ekphrastic poems to sonnets to free verse, the literary variety that afternoon was absolutely incredible to everyone able to witness. As each new category was announced and explained, the students who wrote original work for that section walked on stage as loud applause followed. Poems about love, betrayal, sadness, and joy were shared, leaving the audience in laughter, in smiles, and also in tears. Sophomore performer of a two-voice poem, Julianna Duperval exclaims, “It gives students the opportunity to view writing in a new way with different perspectives and emotions.”
Midway through the event, it was time for the top ten scoring recite night contestants to recite a second poem for round two of the competition. Sitting front row were the judges, Ms. Koch, Ms. Sunshine Phelps, and Ms. Sarah Phelps, ready to evaluate and Ms. Schwab to serve as an accuracy judge. With every talented reciter reciting the poem of their choice, the audience was left in awe at the accuracy and emotion that each student was able to convey all from memory. Applauses roared through the air and cheers were heard all the way from the back of the room as students supported each performer. Sophomore poetry finalist, Faith Banossian, enthusiastically shares, “My favorite part about participating in the poetry slam was the exposure to all sorts of poems. Not only did I get to see poetry ranging from ekphrastic to cinquain, but I got to see the creativity and originality of each performer.”
Poetry slam exposes PPCHS students to a wide variety of poetry that can help students learn which stands out to them the most. By attending these events, students can also learn their personal preferences while connecting with writings that they can relate to. 2nd time Poetry Out Loud champion, Janessa Montilla, proudly states, “Listening to the poems leaves students feeling empowered and motivated to write their own. Seeing their peers up on the stage making an impact through their writing makes them want to do the same. Anyone can write poetry, and I believe that the poetry slam really motivates students to pick up a pen or pencil and just start writing.”
After listening to poetry and viewing literature in a new light, students left the library auditorium feeling empowered and inspired by their very own peers. Each piece of writing was able to convey a different emotion and provide different interpretations, while also bringing everyone together which is the beauty of writing. As Senior champion, Janessa Montilla, continues her journey to States, PPCHS is able to continue to shine pride on the power of students in literature.
