Poetry lovers gathered at the World Grotto in Market Square to partake in determining which four individuals will represent Knoxville in the national poetry slam Friday.

The Arabian themed atmosphere at the World Grotto is fitting for the poets' whimsical utilization of the spoken word.  Middle Eastern fabric drapes immerse the cave-like location where seats are a plenty on long benches surrounding the walls.  The benches outlined with pillows lying around provide the audience with a relaxed surrounding to relish in the performance.

Applaud the poet, and not the score.  Rhea Sunshine, the host and also a poet.

If your stomach is aching for a quick bite to eat before the show, stroll up the flight of steps and get a taste of some authentic Cuban food.  If Cuban cuisine doesn't curb your appetite, there is an assortment of International foods to sample. Stay upstairs and order a drink at the bar, or head back downstairs to where the second bar is located.  After getting seated, admire the stage's layout with lighting for a rock concert and prepare yourself for the show.

Open mic sets the stage for new and old poets to spit their words without worrying about any scoring.  Then a featured poet, usually from a city other than Knoxville, takes the platform to present a few of their pieces to invigorate the crowd.  Before the slam is launched, the host requests for five judges from the audience.  Crowd participation is highly encouraged and demanded to even sway the judges' opinions.

The slam consists of three or four rounds, depending on how many poets participate.  There may be anywhere from four to ten poets all hoping for bragging rights and the money prize.  But poetry is not about winning or losing here.           

"Applaud the poet, and not the score," says Rhea Sunshine, the host and also a poet herself, after every poet hears their judges' convictions.