Every April since 1996, those with a love a poetry have banded together to remind the rest of us that we also have a love for this short form of expression.  To celebrate this year’s National Poetry Month, I encourage you to take a moment out of your busy day and the watch two poetry performances posted below. I guarantee that you will be changed afterwards because that is what poetry does. It makes us experience the world in a whole new way.

If you have never seen a performance by the poet Rives, you are in for a treat. His poetry has been described as “extremely clever, creative, and intellectually alive.” He is part poet, part storyteller, and when you watch him, you can’t help but be ignited by his energy.

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/rives_controls_the_internet.html

A good friend from college sent me the link to this TedTalk performance by two-time U.S. Poet Laureate Billy Collins. Collins is known for his wit and dry sense of humor, and what seem like simple observations, become deeply profound insights in the hands of Collins. Be sure to watch to the end so you don’t miss the reading of his poem entitled “To My Favorite 17-Year-Old Girl.”

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/en/billy_collins_everyday_moments_caught_in_time.html

Inspired to explore more poetry?  You are in luck because East Side Books is hosting a Poetry and Popcorn Party this Saturday, April 28 from 5:00-7:00. Bring your favorite poems to share or just come to listen. All ages welcomed. Refreshments served. Questions? Call 760-873-6882.