The Sir Arthur Lewis Community College, on Wednesday (April12) held its second annual “Word Up Poetry Slam” Finals Competition.
Eight students took to the stage, in a bold display of literary talent, passion, and verbal expression; on themes ranging from love, politics, social commentary, personal struggles and overcoming.
However, when the final votes were tallied, it was second year CAPE student John Tench, who emerged winner with his poem, “The Crucible”. Tench took home the coveted $1, 000 top prize.
With mere single digit points separating the top three spots, crowd favourite Jayde Thomas came in second with a poem entitled “Up and Vengeful” and Christa Williams capped third place with a “Divine Love Letter”. They were all rewarded with various trophies.
The Competitors were judged on stage presence, vocal quality, delivery and interpretation of the poem.
Opening the Slam Finals Lenora Agdomar had set the tone for an afternoon of raw talent and excellence with “Iyanola’s Bidding”- a tear jerking delivery on recent violence in Saint Lucia.
The other Finalists:
• Joanic Paul performing “Pathway to Success”
• Whitney Emmanuel performing “The Priceless Change”
• Ryn-Kyj King performing “A Letter to You”
• Jyle Henry performing “Sober”
Several guest poets were featured during this year’s Poetry Slam finals, including Debra Dolor, who had the audience holding on to every word with a lively social commentary piece.
The event was also graced by the presence of Award winning National Poet and Playwright, Kendal Hippolyte, who performed, “Poem in a Manager” from one of his published works.
Other students rendered passionate performances of music and singing, while MC’s Sharm Peter and Kishana Smith kept the event lively.
Started in 2011, the Poetry Slam event has provided a visible avenue for up and coming writers, essayists and poets, to display their craft. Last year’s winner was Callum James.