Words Power Lyrical Sanctuary Poetry Slam

The lights dimmed as the band played with wild harmony; the crowd is silent as one among them makes the way to the stage. As the artist recites work, another draws cartoons on a large screen, the room’s energy guiding the drawing. The aura inside the Lyrical Sanctuary, a long-standing UWM tradition, was powerful with the words of those presenting their poetry.

UW-Milwaukee’s sociocultural program supports the lyrical sanctuary regular poetry slam nights, inviting artists from both inside and out. Well-known local performers recite poetry alongside student poets, some of whom will be invited to perform in future events.

Some of the artists were funny, some serious, some seemingly expressing a kind of pain, making the human experience seem entirely real.

“People are really talking about things that are important to them,” she concluded smiling with a kind of special joy.

One performer, a girl named Unique, explained that poetry “helps me tell my story and connect with people.” It’s a theme she’s seen played over and over again as artists took to the stage over the years: People need to connect somehow.

“Use it as an outlet,” she advises young poets. “Write for yourself; don’t write for anyone else.”

Graduate program assistant Megan Dufrane, hanging back photographing the event, was ecstatic about Lyrical Sanctuary despite not being a poet herself. According to Dufrane, over 100 people were in attendance just to observe poets, particularly students who may be featured in a springtime showcase.

Program manager Claudia Guzman described Lyrical Sanctuary’s origin over 13 years ago as a student-run event; the founders’ graduating wish was that UWM continue to provide the artistic outlet.

She proudly proclaimed that the program is now at its peak, and there is no sign of a slowdown. It provides a “safe and welcoming space for creative self-expression,” she explained. “Every student should check it out at least once.” She also mentioned the sanctuary’s outdating even Pantherfest, making it one of the longest standing traditions at the university.

The mic was graced with such phrases as “Women cook, women clean, but men don’t cry” and “What was my wish? To share this heart of mine.” Guzman portrayed the event as a place to share diverse opinions and feelings, saying, “it’s a space to talk about difficult topics and issues.”