The Contingency Plan

i went to my first word slam tonight. yes, i know they've been around for years, BUT i not only went, but also judged. so there.

the event was held in an intimate inner city cafe called 'the lounge'. it use to hold funky dj nights and play arty movies on the walls, but now holds poetic word slams and lets artists paint the millieu.

being a virgin the scene i noticed it was like a small community. the poets were all very acquainted and each had their own support network sporting the same choppy haircuts, piercings, and carefully selected vintage, second hand clothing.

my neighbour, nathan, is one of the organisers of the national youth writing festival and has become close friends with me and particularly with lucas so i went along on my own to show support as he coordinated the event. lucas had to work, which was a shame as he would've loved it.

it felt good to place myself outside of comfort and go somewhere on my own where i didn't know anyone, where all the 'anyone's would know each other.

nevertheless within a few moments i had made some friends and as i thought, nathan was running around trying to fix broken heaters, dim overty strong lights and make sure everyone was happy.

and the show went on smoothly. the ambience was relaxed and friendly and the poets were very impressive. i later discovered many have been in the scene for years and you could tell. the performances were touching - hell, they made me laugh, they made me cry... judging was also fun and yes the guys i voted for won.