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When you are writing a spoken word poem, the tools you're…

“When you are writing a spoken word poem, the tools you're working with are your voice, your body, how it's going to sound to someone when you're saying it out loud. Which is different from when you're writing it on the page. That toolbox becomes how does this look visually on the page, how does…” quote by Phil Kay
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“When you are writing a spoken word poem, the tools you're working with are your voice, your body, how it's going to sound to someone when you're saying it out loud. Which is different from when you're writing it on the page. That toolbox becomes how does this look visually on the page, how does this read among pages, how is this in relation to poems that are before it or after it. I don't think one is better or more successful than the other. You've just gotta think about "what are the tools I'm using, and how are they most effective in this form?"”

Phil Kay

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He explains that creating spoken word poetry requires different tools—voice, body, sound—compared to writing on a page, and each form demands its own effective techniques.

In simple terms: Different mediums need different tools and strategies.

Key Takeaway

Adapt tools to the medium for best impact.

Themes

creativity expression medium technique

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

instructional inspirational

When to use this quote

  • performing poetry
  • writing poetry
  • teaching workshops

Key Concepts

Artistic adaptation communication theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you decide which medium fits your poem?
  • What tools enhance your spoken delivery?
A Different Perspective

Choosing the wrong tool can dilute the message.

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