Slam Poet Patricia Smith Lays It Down at Benaroya Next Week
“Can poetry hurt us? they ask me before
snuggling inside my words to sleep.”
Slam poetry veteran Patricia Smith’s words hurt us. They dig under our skin and draw out forgotten bits of pain and collective shame. And then something miraculous happens; we’re allowed, just briefly, to smile and laugh and cringe at our shortcomings. Smith explores her world with humor and humility, melody and sensuality, and we’re pulled along for the ride.
“Imagine my disgust at discovering that I am
actually that readable and uncomplicated,
that I could find nothing in my worth noting
except one heat and two ways to release it.
Music leads to sex leads to music leads to sex.”
In addition to publishing five books of poetry, Smith has been included in numerous anthologies, published a history book, a children’s book, appeared on HBO’s “Def Poetry Jam” and is credited with making slam poetry a national phenomenon. Her work as awarded her several major literary awards and prizes, including the Hurston-Wright Legacy Award in Poetry, the Patterson Poetry Award and the Pushcart Prize. Her latest book, Blood Dazzler, is a collection of poems about Hurricane Katrina.
“Arlene learned to dance backwards in heels that were too high.
Bret prayed for a shaggy mustache made of mud and hair.
Cindy just couldn’t keep her windy legs together.
Dennis never learned to swim.
Emily whispered her guts into a thousand skins.”
You can catch this dynamic poet in person next week. Smith will be laying down her words at Benaroya Hall on February 15 at 7:30 as part of the Seattle Arts and Lectures Series. Her live readings are vibrant and musical and definitely not to be missed.
Tuesday, February 15, 7:30 p.m. // Benaroya Hall // $20
