THOMASIAN poets highlighted the importance of continuing the practice of poetry’s oral tradition during their open mic performances at Ruins Poblacion in Makati last Jan. 26.
Victor Emmanuel Carmelo “Vim” Nadera, former Varsitarian editor in chief, cited “spiritual and didactic poetry” as examples of poetry’s oral tradition.
“[There is] this preaching voice. Just like in the Church wherein you can see the priest talking down to his parishioners at the center…preaching, always giving lesson[s],” Nadera said.
Nadera is the pioneer of country’s poetry therapy, the use of written and spoken word for healing and personal growth.
Palanca-winning author Michael Coroza said poetry’s oral traditions should not be forgotten even if Filipino poets choose to “publish their works in journals, magazines and books.
“Kung nakasulat lamang ang tula sa aklat at hindi naman [iyon] mabubuklat, hindi maririnig, hindi magkakaroon ng pag-antig sa mga tao,” Coroza, a former Varsitarian Filipino editor, said. “[I]ba pa rin kapag naririnig mo na ang tula ay binibigkas o nasasaksihan mong tinatanghal.”
The event, titled, “Ang Sabi Nila,” is a series of poetry nights aiming to “reestablish the primal importance of listening in the appreciation and conduct of poetry.”
