Final Exam

Dateline: 12/23/97

(T/F)

1. _____ When you read a poem you are a different person from the one who wrote the poem.
2. _____ Always apologize first thing.
3. _____ Pre-select the order of poems and stick to it no matter what.
4. _____ Introduce each poem anecdotally.
5. _____ Explain each poem before you read it. “Here’s a poem about. . .” suffices. Define any difficult or foreign words. Describe your relationship to any people mentioned.
6. _____ Adjust and use the microphone. About 6” away, speaking directly into it.
7. _____ Use props, lights, “theatrical devices.” Dance. Sing. Chant. Play musical instruments.
8. _____ Always document your readings.
9. _____ Poetry is to change the world.
10. _____ If you have friends, always read new work.
11. _____ All poems should be typed, using the same type of paper, and arranged in a black spring binder.
12. _____ Never read any poems but your own.
13. _____ Always a big ol’ crowd pleaser at the end.
14. _____ There is no difference between reading and performing a poem.
15. _____ Reading/performing well is as important as writing well.
16. _____ All poets should work at their reading skills.
17. _____ Memorize your work.
18. _____ Spontaneity must be carefully rehearsed.
19. _____ PerfPoets have nothing to learn from TextPoets.
20. _____ Vice versa.
21. _____ Performing a poem is a continuation of writing the poem.
22. _____ Poetry Slams are the antithesis of poetry and are to be engaged in at every opportunity.
23. _____ You are a poet.

--Bob Holman

OK, class, time's up. We know you've mentally marked each of these statements true or false as you read through them, so write down your answers & turn in your papers NOW!

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