The American poet and playwright Amiri Baraka (formerly Le Roi Jones) once said:

“The artist’s role is to raise the consciousness of the people. To make them understand life, the world and themselves more completely. That’s how I see it. Otherwise, I don’t know why you do it.”

When we think of this quote, and the practice and application of poetry today, what comes to mind?

We can only hope this engaging dialogue surrounding the art form as we currently understand it, along with this dynamic collection of artists who have chosen the weapon of the pen, the oral tradition, and the power of poetry in the struggle for a better future, will provide you with a clearer answer.

Featured poets: TBD.