"Complainers," a Spoken-Word Poem by Rudy Francisco

Performed on The Tonight Show on 02MAR18, this spoken-word poem by Rudy Francisco fits the classic definition of this genre. As described by the Poetry Foundation, spoken word often include a blend of elements: 

Spoken word is a broad designation for poetry intended for performance. Though some spoken word poetry may also be published on the page, the genre has its roots in oral traditions and performance. Spoken word can encompass or contain elements of rap, hip-hop, storytelling, theater, and jazz, rock, blues, and folk music. Characterized by rhyme, repetition, improvisation, and word play, spoken word poems frequently refer to issues of social justice, politics, race, and community. Related to slam poetry, spoken word may draw on music, sound, dance, or other kinds of performance to connect with audiences.

Like many of the poems from the Beat Generation, the performance adds an extra dimension of meaning and reading them aloud brings energy and passion to the words. Have a listen. . .