Writing is a solitary process, and many writers are introverts, though there are exceptions, so it is no surprise to me that many writers tremble at the thought of getting in front of the microphone. I have witnessed those who pretend not to be speaking publicly by saying, I’m pretty sure everyone can hear me without the mic.
My observations tell me that the microphone is important. I recall one reading where shoppers gravitated to the reading, apparently pulled in by the reader’s voice. When a reader spoke without the microphone, the crowd began to disburse, and new audience members stopped arriving.
But why do we speak at these events?
My answer is that poetry was meant to be read out loud. That is why poets pay close attention to the rhythm and sonic elements of the poem. Your teachers who told you about alliteration, consonance, and assonance were onto something. Those metric feet are important. Even though most poetry seems to be free verse these days, it still has a rhythmic structure.
I even read poems by other authors out loud. When I pick up a book by Mary Oliver or Billy Collins, I want to read it out loud. For poetry, I prefer audiobooks read by the author, if they are available.
I have heard that most poetry books are sold at readings, though some of the more popular poets may do well with books marketed in other ways. I have also seen statements from prose authors indicting that they sell books when they are giving readings and sales dry up when they are not.
This evidence is anecdotal, and I have not seen any hard data on the subject. If you are aware of any evidence verifying or refuting my claim, I would be delighted to hear more.
My article “Chatty on the Mic” in the Chattanooga Pulse appeared just before social distancing and our sequestration from public gatherings. It gives a pre-covid view of poetry opportunities in Chattanooga. Opportunities are returning, and I hope we can reach the level we previously attained.
https://www.chattanoogapulse.com/features/chatty-on-the-mic/.
Nice piece. The pandemic and less contact certainly did lessen sales. Readings also attract people who might not otherwise engage, so I am glad they are starting up again.