Nathalie Handal

Tonight, I attended the poetry reading by Nathalie Handal. I was a bit skeptical going into it because I was not sure if I was going to enjoy it or not. I was never exposed to a true poetry reading. I have only seen videos. I also find it hard to connect with poetry at times. By the end of it, I was mesmerized. Having a poet read their own poetry is so beautiful. I could connect with what she was saying, and even if I didn't completely understand the poem, she would explain it afterwords. There were times when she would be talking about her own life ans why she wrote a particular poem and I felt as though she was talking directly to me. Poetry is one thing on paper, but another when someone is speaking it to you.

Nathalie Handal is an amazing women. Her stories are fascinating and shes very open when it comes to her poetry. She speaks not really having a home, but finding comfort and solitude in poetry. She writes to remember. She spoke of how she has a bad memory and many times cant even realize that someone is quoting one of her own pieces of work. She needs to write things down to avoid forgetting them. She notices the beauties of the world but never forgets the burdens. I understand where she is coming from. when she was discussing this, I was able to connect with her so much more. She doesn't just talk to you, she speaks to you. Her poetry and what she would talk about made me reflect on my own life.

It was my first ever poetry reading and I left very pleased. I love walking away from something tat leaves you thinking and Nathalie Handal has that affect on you. I was honored to be able to listen to her, and for her to share her story. She is an inspirational writer and it was a wonderful experince.