Illustration by Neelam Khan
Spoken word is defined as “an oral art that focuses on the aesthetics of word play and intonation and voice inflection’’ (CourseHero). Spoken Word Club was founded a very long time ago at Berkeley High School (BHS). The club has always been a part of BHS club and student life. There are four amazing people running this club this school year. The two co-presidents are Ida-Rose Chabon and Vanessa Rasmussen, the secretary is Quinn Edlin, and Oona Bruss is the treasurer.
Spoken Word Club is a safe place for everyone. People have trust in each other, listen to each unique voice, and respect each other.
This club is open to everyone. In spoken word club one can write stories, poetry, songs, rapping, etc. You do not have to be an expert at these things to join this club. You can join and try learning how to write poetry, songs, and more. If you really want to become a poet, the club will help you become one. In this club, they write what they want to write, and then they sit around the circle and share.
The club provides a supportive and nurturing space to help people become better writers and poets. “Spoken Word Club gives people space to be creative,” said Edlin. BHS students are very creative people, but some have more of an opportunity to explore that creativity than others.
Spoken Word Club is a place to go to find a voice and take the freedom of expressing oneself. The club is unique because it is a place for people to stand up and speak up for themselves and others. Students should go to this club because it provides people the opportunity to speak up and act, in a place where all voices can be heard.
The club is a form of activism, encouraging people to express their emotions. This year, the club is hoping to host an open mic and poetry slam.
Currently, there are fifteen students who attend the club meetings, but there is room for anyone else who wants to attend.
The club meets every Monday during lunch in G-109 and every student is welcome to attend and create inspiring works of art.