Good Life Project A Balm for Anxious Times: The Power of Spoken Word | Sarah Kay
Jul 24, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Sarah Kay—a celebrated writer and spoken word artist—unpacks the transformative essence of poetry. She reveals how her craft bridges isolation, connecting us through shared human experiences. From themes of heartbreak to mortality, Sarah highlights poetry's ability to evoke deep emotions and foster community. She shares her journey from a young admirer to an active participant in the poetic world, while emphasizing the need for inclusive spaces that invite creativity. Discover how metaphor and storytelling can heal and unite us.
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Early Metaphor for Anxiety
- Sarah Kay shares a childhood memory of describing anxiety using a metaphor about a woman weaving on a loom inside her.
- This early use of metaphor shows how she sought to explain complex feelings before knowing about poetry.
Poetry: A Childhood Gift and Community
- Sarah Kay's parents began writing her daily poems in her lunchbox, creating a loving initiation into poetry.
- She later discovered poetry as a communal experience at a New York City teen poetry slam, transforming her relationship to the art.
Finding Voice in Teen Slam
- Sarah Kay began performing in a dive bar teen poetry slam at 14, slowly gaining confidence and respect from adults.
- This welcoming environment shaped her commitment to making space for others in poetry.
