High school junior looks ahead to next year
Moses Usen accomplished what no other Cornwall student has in the past — he placed second in the state Poetry out Loud competition. Jessica Wu made it to regionals all four years of high school and only made it to states once. Ariel Yarmus made it to states twice, but neither placed.
As Usen was informed of this news, a blank stare fell across his face as he let the shocking news sink in.
“I was surprised because it was after the second round they chose five of us to move onto the third round out of twenty,” Usen said. “When I got called, I realized I could be close to winning. I did not think I would make it. It’s crazy to think about because I randomly decided to do this on a whim one day and I made it all the way here which is really shocking.”
The state competition took place last month in Brooklyn. Usen and his family drove down the Friday before the finals and spent the night in a hotel.
As with the regional competition, Usen was required to recite three poems. He stuck with the three he read previously: Wilfred Owen’s “Anthem for Doomed Youth,” “The Affliction of Richard” by Robert Bridges, and “About Standing (in Kinship)” by Kimberly Blaeser.
Preparation for states was similar to past practices. Usen recorded himself reciting the poems and then watched the videos to see where he could improve. One thing he did differently was read the poems in front of friends who then gave him advice on what he could do better. One suggested he use his hands less when speaking and try to limit the gestures to when it’s necessary to execute the meaning of the poem.
Nerves were high during the competition, but there was an opportunity for Usen to meet the other participants following the second round. He described the other students as “nice” and “cool.” There were no feelings of aggression from anyone, which helped alleviate any tension.
Usen even hit it off with the eventual winner. Everyone was really supportive.
Although Usen made it through to the final round and placed second, only the top finisher in each state moved on to the national competition in Washington, D.C. in May. The high school junior isn’t disappointed, however.
“I’m surprised I made it this far. I’m glad to be able to experience the entire competition because last year I was considering doing it but I didn’t do it at all, not even the school competition.
Rather than be disappointed I’m being more optimistic and looking at the bright side – this is my first time and I made it this far. I think I have a good shot of winning next year.”
One element which Usen took away from the experience is how big a part poem selection plays.
“I think if I really analyzed which poems I recited and which ones spoke to me, I can pick a better poem to recite. I feel a lot of it is not how you’re reciting but also what you’re reciting.”
“About Standing in Kinship” was the shortest of the three poems and was funnier and more wholesome compared to the other two which were more dramatic and emotional. Usen said the audience seemed to connect more with the latter.
With plans to enter the competition again next year, Usen is considering starting the process early and selecting poems ahead of time.
Having declined participation his sophomore year, Usen’s success made him realize he should be more open to participating in school activities, even if he doesn’t immediately find them appealing.
“You never know where you could find yourself once you start trying new opportunities.”
