“Life is Like a Coin”

Photo Credit: Wes Hagman

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Written by Wes Hagman

Blinding camera flashes covered the stage, attempting to capture the budding poet’s quiet confidence.  The crowd went silent as the autobiographical poem “Listen Father” by Jesus Alvarez, a 16-year-old Menlo-Atherton student, unfolded before the rapt audience.  His poem was selected with five other Bay Area teenagers to be featured in “Bay Window,” an anthology of teen writing created by renowned Bay Area poet Betsy Franco.  “Listen Father” describes personal hardships Jesus has overcome and his belief of the importance of family and unity.

Jesus Alvarez performed his work at Kepler’s Poetry Slam November 6.  After an introduction to the novel Metamorphosis and poems from two Palo Alto students, Jesus took the stage.

Jesus’ English teacher Ms. Gilbert and her friends were just some of the few in attendance amongst the crowd of approximately 100 people.  When Jesus took the stage, the audience felt his presence immediately.  He unwaveringly grabbed the microphone and relived his family struggles.

In his piece, Jesus wisely expressed such sentiments as “Life is like a coin, you can spend it any way you want, but you can only spend it once.”  As Jesus Alvarez finished his poem, several women broke out in tears, and his entire audience was clearly touched.

I met with him after the emotional event and asked him a couple questions involving his new poetic career.  Jesus is excited about writing more, as he declared, “This was my first poem ever written.”

“I could not believe it.  I was so happy and excited that people really liked it,” exclaimed Jesus.  “I enjoy writing poetry because it allows you to express your feelings and share it with others.”  I finally asked Jesus if he would like to perform poetry in public again, and he confidently answered, “Sure, and I think I will do better next time.”

As this was only his first poem, there is sure to be more great work in the future.

1. William Hickman Says:
   November 11th, 2009 at 9:21 pm

   Do you know of a place where I could read (or watch Jesus read) this poem? The article makes it sound quite interesting.

   [Reply]

2. Jack Chen Says:
   November 23rd, 2009 at 10:04 am

   Good job, Jesus! I am glad to have made the video for you.

   [Reply]

3. *deedeebabyy CUHZ!!! Says:
   November 23rd, 2009 at 10:14 am

   I like your poem!!!
   I feel you though on this one!!!
   Stay up though cuhz!!

   [Reply]