Lately, I have found myself defending spoken word, defending it from over generalizing stereotypes, and people who just don't get it. My main point is that there is too much hatred of things when people just don't understand. There is too much fear of the unknown.
What I have tried to do with things I don't fully understand is say "I don't know much about that." I don't dismiss it as being less than me or an invalid art form. I am not saying that everyone has to love spoken word. I am saying that it is enough to say I don't like it and leave at that. Don't call it garbage, or decide that everyone who participates is phony.
We assume folks reciting these revolutionary poems aren't doing anything because we can't see it. Out of sight and out of mind doesn't mean not in action. This is the kind of thing that gives spoken word poetry a bad name. Besides everyone have different parts to play in the movement. Some deliver the news, some make the news, and others change the course of history. Which part do you play?
Anyway, the beat a week is a joint I call "smooth." Hear it at www.dluxthelight.com click on BEAT-A-WEEK.
Until next time,
DLUX: THE LIGHT
The Spoken word hip hop poet
