The West Tennessee Delta Heritage Center will host its monthly Open Mic Monday March 20, 2017. Open Mic gives the community an opportunity to share original works or recite pieces by favorite authors and poets. The event begins at 6 p.m., and coincides with World Poetry Day that will be recognized on March 21.

“Poetry is a form of expression. It represents emotions, curiosity and, in some cases, it tells a story,” says Kesha Burton, a poet and regular participant in Open Mic Monday.

Poets share their stories and use metaphors and figures of speech to grab the reader’s attention. They sometimes relate their works to life situations and strive to inspire the mind, while reaching the heart and soul. That’s the hope for the audience at Open Mic Monday, according to Burton.

“World Poetry Day recognizes poetry as a work of art,” explains Center Director Sonia Outlaw-Clark. “This is one reason we feel it’s important to keep this creative art form alive in Brownsville.”

In partnership with the Brownsville Arts Council, participants are encouraged to share their personal story and inspiration through the written word. This includes poetry, short stories, song writing and any works involving the spoken word.

Open Mic Monday is free and open to all ages. For more information, contact the Center at 731-779-9000.