BLK GEN Uses Spoken Word Poetry to Create Bridges in Beijing

Irene Li, Associate Editor | Oct 27, 2023 5:39 pm | Add a comment | 82 reads

When Nay kick-started BLK GEN back in 2017, he had a crystal-clear purpose in mind: to build bridges between the Black and expat community in China and everyone else. In other words, he aimed to craft a haven of expression that would help us understand our community from multifaceted viewpoints.

While history has seen various artistic mediums like drawing and painting, BLK GEN opted for a distinct path: Spoken word poetry. For those who might not be familiar, spoken word poetry is less of a competition à la poetry slam, and more of a platform that allows individuals to express themselves through the power of verse.

Being a US native who relocated to China in 2016, Nay found the spoken word poetry scene in Beijing to be slightly different from what he'd experienced back home. However, he emphasizes that the essence of conveying a message remains consistent everywhere. During BLK GEN events, while English dominates, there are also poets who grace the stage with Chinese performances. Nay explains, "Even if someone doesn't comprehend the language or the ideas, they can usually pick up on the emotional undertones from the way the message is delivered. Whether it's a piece filled with sadness or anger, the listener can sense it."

BLK GEN's spoken poetry sessions usually center around a theme. Previous sessions have welcomed poets sharing deeply personal tales about love, life's darker moments, and the transformative power of relationships. While their upcoming session on Oct 28, titled "Sumrsova", focuses on summarizing summer experiences through spoken word. It's difficult to remain unmoved when you hear someone reflecting on your own experiences.

Nay, for his part, finds himself particularly captivated by stories of resilience and narratives about individuals who have prevailed over adversity. At these gatherings, you'll encounter a diverse crowd, revealing their most profound emotions and vulnerabilities to the public.

One such member, Tim Reed, is a New Zealand native who arrived in China in 2018. "I draw my poetic inspiration from things that fascinate me or affect me personally" says Reed about his work. "My writings often revolve around everyday life—the Beijing Subway Lines, whiskey-infused chocolate bonbons, reading Wiki's advice on attracting women, and then tumbling off a rooftop garden."

Other creatives find their muse in varied places. Take Da Han, a Hollywood local who has since immersed himself in Beijing and Shanghai's film industry. His poetry springs from an emotional well that runs deep and overflows. His style is notably influenced by several artists. In his own words: “The raw, visceral performances of legendary vocalists like James Brown, Elvis, and John Fogerty have always resonated with me."

"They inspired me to touch upon the rawest nerves when I step onto the stage, much like how they belted out the blues," Da Han continues. "This thought process often intertwines with my personal battles and inner demons. My experiences, including bouts of depression and the challenges of adjusting to life in a foreign country as an expat, have also played a significant role."

Through these poetic dialogues, the distance between the local and expat communities is gradually diminishing. Nay observes that in recent years, things have improved significantly. "There's still much more room for growth", he admits. "But I think due to the efforts of not just the black community, but also the contributions of other cultural groups, we are starting to feel more comfortable interacting and learning about different cultures.”

BLK GEN's Sumasova is happening tomorrow, Saturday, Oct 28 from 6-10pm at Li-Pi Records in 798. Tickets are RMB 180 per person and be purchased by scanning the QR code below.