INTALK CONVERSATION: Merry Eyam Offers Insight Into The Uniqueness In The Idiosyncrasies of Spoken-word Artists' Styles

In this short interview, Merry talks about the uniqueness in the idiosyncrasies of spoken-word artists' styles.

Merry Eyam's spoken word, Reminiscence, was shortlisted for the Pawners Paper's Spoken Word and Poetry Contest.

Merry Eyam is a spoken-word artist. Her writing pseudonym is ey'AM Merry. 

 

In this short interview, Merry talks about the uniqueness in the idiosyncrasies of spoken-word artists' styles.

How does it feel to make the shortlist?  Did you anticipate it?

I look forward to winning, yet seeing my name on the shortlist made me truly excited. I was so full of joy that I wanted to immediately share it with all my friends in PoeticNest, an art community that encourages and fuels my writing. They shared the opportunity and encouraged me to submit.

 

What's the story behind your entry and, what inspired you to come up with the piece?

A dear friend shared the entry two days before the deadline. We shared enthusiasm over the theme, and creating this piece came from a place of peace, truckloads of happiness, and nostalgic scenes. My mind went way back in time, unearthing nicely shelved memories, and I am truly grateful for the experience. 

 

What are the skills that a spoken word artist must possess?

In my opinion, a spoken word artist should possess skills of authenticity: being true to your story and voice; a profound reading regime because that's how you get better; confidence in speaking, manipulating intonation, and the ability to convey emotions with the entirety of your being; the skill of thinking, as Utibe Hanson would say, "thoughts form your words"; and observance: the ability to see and relish the fact you do. 

 

In what ways do you think spoken word poetry is better conveyed?

Accurate enunciations and unrestrained emotional expressions. 

 

If gaining attention equals gaining followers, in what ways can this be properly developed as a contemporary artist?

Gaining attention amounts to gaining followers. This can be properly developed as a contemporary artist through consistency in engaging with your audience with your most authentic self. 

How do you perceive the peculiarities of styles with respect to spoken word performance?

Sometimes, it seems like the universe drops a piece in your mind and gives you the imagery it demands. Other times, I believe we find our voice and peculiar styles on the journey.