Strategies to Identify Constructions in Spoken Word Poetry in Kenya

Abstract

This article explores how poets construct their identities in spoken word poetry performances in Nairobi, Kenya. The article contends how the poets create their own images, and stage personae play a pivotal role in endearing themselves to the unique Nairobi audience. It does this by tracing the history of the event and comprehensively describing the performances. Preparations for the event are also brought to light. Spoken word poetry is, arguably, the premier regular performance poetry event in Nairobi since 2015 to date. Thus, understanding how the poets construct their own identities is an essential antidote to understanding the longstanding endurance of the spoken word poetry performances in Nairobi.