POETRY IN COMFORT BRINGS WORDSMITHS TOGETHER FOR THIRD EDITION

BY SIPHOSETHU MABUZA

MANZINI – From carefully crafted verses to stories drawn from everyday life, poetry has a way of giving words a voice beyond ordinary conversation. On December 5, poets and spoken-word performers will gather at the Liberty Community Centre in Manzini for the third edition of Poetry in Comfort, a showcase celebrating the art of storytelling through words, with Sya Goje named as the headline act.

The programme features a range of performers, including Scroll, Eleanor, Poetess Landa, Poetess Mvelo, Afany, Poetic General, Melihle EM, Sivikelwe Poetess, Mvu De Poet, Chawelesizwe and Queen B. The gathering will also feature musical performances by Bulelwa, Machawe Simelane, Wendwayosi, Cool Drop, Dabulamazwe, Isabee, Cy Ndukwenyama and Nokwanda Mamba.

The mix of poetry and music offers an opportunity for performers to explore different ways of connecting with audiences, whether through spoken word, rhythm, personal experiences or stories that reflect the world around them.

Unlike music performances built primarily around melodies and beats, poetry places language at the centre of the experience. A carefully delivered line, a pause or a change in tone can carry emotion and meaning, allowing audiences to connect with the performer in an intimate way.

Events such as Poetry in Comfort also provide a platform for emerging writers to share their work, develop confidence and meet fellow creatives. For an art form that often depends on live delivery, such gatherings can help poets build audiences beyond social media and informal performance spaces.

The third edition continues the event’s theme, “Where Words Find a Home,” placing emphasis on creating space for different voices and expressions. With performers from poetry and music sharing one programme, the gathering will bring together spoken-word storytelling and live entertainment under one roof. Poetry in Comfort is scheduled for December 5 at Liberty Community Centre in Manzini.