Introduction:
April is National Poetry Month, a time to celebrate the beauty and power of words crafted by some of the world’s most talented poets. In honor of this special time, we’ve compiled a list of nine must-see TED Talks that will inspire you, captivate you, and make you fall in love with poetry even more. Grab a cup of tea, sit back, and enjoy these incredible talks led by accomplished poets and performers.
1. Sarah Kay: “If I Should Have a Daughter”
In this heartfelt talk, spoken word poet Sarah Kay shares her love for writing and performing poetry. She discusses her experience teaching poetry to students from various walks of life and delivers an evocative performance of her poem, “B.”
2. Rives: “A Story of Mixed Emoticons”
Performance poet Rives expertly weaves a captivating narrative using emoticons as the foundation in this charming talk. He demonstrates how digital communication can be infused with the beauty of poetic language.
3. Billy Collins: “Everyday Moments Caught in Time”
Former U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins takes us on a journey through everyday moments that inspire his imaginative verses. His calm persona and wry sense of humor make this talk both entertaining and thought-provoking.
4. Shane Koyczan: “To This Day… For the Bullied and Beautiful”
In this deeply emotional talk, Canadian spoken-word artist Shane Koyczan performs his powerful piece “To This Day,” which addresses the long-lasting impact of bullying on individuals. The animated video accompanying his performance adds to the raw emotion expressed through his words.
5. Amanda Palmer: “The Art of Asking”
Musician and poet Amanda Palmer discusses her career as an artist and emphasizes the importance of forging genuine connections with audiences through vulnerability and empathy. Her talk is a poignant reminder of the power of authenticity in art.
6. Tracy K. Smith: “A Story of Survival, Written in Poems”
U.S. Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith discusses her Pulitzer Prize-winning collection “Life on Mars” and shares the deeply personal experiences that inspired her to write. Her talk offers a glimpse into the intersection of personal grief and cosmic wonder through poetry.
7. Elizabeth Acevedo: “The Language of a Privileged Teen Student”
Award-winning poet and author Elizabeth Acevedo insightfully addresses issues of identity, language, and privilege among young people through her stunning spoken-word poetry.
8. Clint Smith: “How to Raise a Black Son in America”
In his powerful talk, teacher and poet Clint Smith discusses the challenges young black men face in America through his experience as an educator. He performs his compelling poem “Counterfactual,” which explores the idea of an alternate reality.
9. Ivan Coyote: “Why We Need Gender-neutral Bathrooms”
Storyteller and poet Ivan Coyote brings attention to the importance of gender-neutral restrooms by sharing personal experiences as a gender-nonconforming individual. Their heartfelt talk promotes empathy and understanding for those who often feel marginalized in public spaces.
Conclusion:
Each of these TED Talks offers a unique perspective on the power and beauty of poetry while addressing various themes such as identity, empathy, vulnerability, and social issues. Watching these engaging performances during National Poetry Month is sure to leave you inspired and enriched with a deeper love for the written word.
