The Heartbeat Of Sacramento’s Arts Scene Lives In Its Poets

Sacramento has fostered a vibrant poetry community that has gradually emerged from the city’s intimate cafes to become a fixture on bustling street corners and within established venues. Every October, an entire week is devoted to poetry, emphasizing the city's heartbeat as a lively hub for literary artists. Organizations such as the Sacramento Poetry Center and Mahogany Urban Poetry Series stand testament to this cultural evolution. Recent Poet Laureate Andru Defeye highlighted the awakening of these creative spaces, including the Poetry Center’s shift into digital realms with its upcoming Tule Review, which now embraces spoken word performances. Events like poetry book clubs and group therapy further nurture this environment. Ashlyn Haskins, also known as Shenay, merges her unique tea blends with poetry in her open mic events, fostering connections through shared experiences. Meanwhile, Khiry Malik Moore’s Mahogany series has become a multi-venue sanctuary for diverse talents, celebrating artistic expression beyond just poetry, showcasing a rich, collaborative community.