The microphone fell silent and was packed away, but the echoes of poems still reverberated around the clubroom at the Mercure Hotel. ‘I’m really glad I took part,’ one competitor told me. 
I switched off the lights and headed out into a mild October night. I came up with the idea of a poetry slam some months ago when I was tasked with putting together a programme for this session at Ayr Writers’ Club.
Poetry Slams have become hugely popular in recent years, originating in Chicago in the 1980s. It was seen as a way to make poetry more accessible and energetic. The format of a live performance, judged by the audience, reached the UK in the late 1990s.
Our very first Ayr Writers’ Poetry Slam gave twelve brave souls the opportunity to share their poetry, practise their performance skills, and build confidence. ‘Everyone is supportive and that gives you courage to try again,’ a happy member commented. The audience appreciated each performance and cheered them on. ‘The poetry slam was such a success,’ was a sentiment repeated several times. 
The poems were wide and varied. The audience listened to a disastrous tale of food poisoning and an equally disastrous honeymoon. Emotions were high as competitors regaled us with annoyance at terrible teens and visits to the dentist. The beauty of nature and the thorny subject of writers’ block were also portrayed effectively. 
Each poem brought something new and valuable. As the applause faded, one participant summed it up perfectly, ‘What a really good night.’
Linda brought the house down and received a clutch of caramel wafers as her prize in the categories of funniest poem – tied with Maggie B, best delivery, and audience favourite. 
Tracy came top for best use of language, and the most thought-provoking category was won by Maggie M.
Our winners were very generous and shared their chockie biscuits around, making sure each performer left with a sweet treat. Thanks must go to Carolyn and Ken O’Hara for allowing us to use their microphone and amp.
The second half of the evening saw a successful book sale organised by Jennifer and Gavin, who ended the evening with a lively auction. Thanks also to everyone who baked, this added so much to the evening. A healthy total of £109 was raised for club funds – a great effort.
The evening was summed up as one competitor said, ‘It was a most enjoyable event and one that should be repeated.’ I hope so too.
Fiona Johnson