Rhetorical relationships in performance poetry
- WCU Author/Contributor (non-WCU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Bessie Lee Dietrich Goggins (Creator)
- Institution
- Western Carolina University (WCU )
- Web Site: http://library.wcu.edu/
- Advisor
- Marsha Baker
Abstract: This work examines the rhetorical relationships of performance poetry (slam and
spoken word) and how they create a truth-sharing environment for all who are involved
through a case study of poets from Atlanta and Charlotte. Using rhetorical strategy to
connect with as many audience members as possible while maintaining their integrity,
these poets become living, breathing examples of rhetoricians. And they use the intricate
theories of M.M. Bakhtin, John Locke, Kenneth Burke, and other rhetoricians to
accomplish these connections. Performance poetry, which is gaining a larger audience
base every year, illustrates the captivating strength of rhetorical theory at play in crafted,
theatrical, and nonlinear dialogue between poet and audience.
This study investigates relationships involved with performance poetry – those of
society and of the poet –and explores the poetry itself. Within these chapters, the
rhetorical prerequisites for truth-sharing at a poetry venue develop as a frame – not an
answer – for performance poetry’s success. Finally, this work reflects the ideas of poets
balancing personal integrity with public connection by investigating the purpose of truth
within a truth-sharing environment. And all of it takes place through relaxed prose in hopes that my explanation of the rhetorical strategies these poets implement in
performance poetry will be as accessible as the poetry itself.
Rhetorical relationships in performance poetry
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Created on 11/1/2009
Views: 6833
Additional Information
- Publication
- Thesis
- Language: English
- Date: 2009
- Keywords
- Audience, Performance poetry, Poets, Relationships, Rhetoric
- Subjects
- Performance poetry -- North Carolina -- Charlotte
- Performance poetry -- Georgia -- Atlanta