Jonathan Underhill is to be congratulated on his skilful poem which reflects his recent investigation into such poets as Benjamin Zephaniah. Jonathan handles rhythm with flair and subtlety and his language has vigour: “Changing, RantingLaughing, Cackling”. This poem is visually appealing with its lively pattern and movement of the page. It has a marvellous, festive atmosphere to make readers and audiences chant, dance and go in search of the “rhythm of da street”.
Moniza Alvi, this term’s guest poet, was born in Pakistan and brought up in Hertfordshire. She has published two collections, “The Country at My Shoulder” and “A Bowl of Warm Air”.
Rhythm of da Street!
Jump up!
Jump down!
Listen to da beat
Of da rhythm of da street
Listen to da sound
Da rhythm all around
Da beat of da beat
Of da rhythm of da street
Stomping, Stamping
Changing, Ranting,
Laughing, Cackling,
Rhythm of da street.
The Street,
The Street
The street has a beat,
Called da rhythm of da street
Da rhythm of da street
Is cool, is hot!
Cum dance to the beat of da rhythm of da street
To da rhythm of da street cum dance. JONATHAN UNDERHILL
Jonathan Underhill, aged 13, receives “Why is the Sky?”, edited by John Agard (Faber). Submitted by Fiona Welch of Wildern School, Southampton, who receives a set of Poetry Society posters with teacher’s notes. Please send students’ poems to The TES, Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1 9XY
