‘My mouth is the keeper of both speech and silence.’ 
—Edwidge Danticat, The Book of the Dead

Middle Ground: PREE. Caribbean Writing’s Open Mic event celebrates the beauty and diversity of literary expression. Exploring the importance of orality and migration in shaping identity, it is a space where words come alive, emotions collide, and connections are formed. All poets and storytellers are welcome to share their literary creations under the ‘Voice, Echo, and Location’ theme. 

As Isis Semaj Hall, co-founder of PREE: Caribbean Writing, observes: ‘. . . coming from the Caribbean, what we say, when we say it, and how we say, says so much about who we are’. Expanding upon this idea, how can one find inspiration in the echoes of experiences? How does location shape one’s perception of the world? Are you captivated by the words, tones, sounds, and emotions of the human voice? If so, Middle Ground’s Open Mic is the perfect platform for expressing your thoughts and insights. Whether you have a profound poem that resonates with the essence of voice, an intriguing story that explores the echoes of memory, or a vivid piece that transports us to a specific location, you are invited to take the stage and share your talent. Submissions are encouraged from both seasoned performers and first-time participants, all of whom may perform in their preferred language.

To participate, please submit a sample of work via email: openmicnight@hkw.de This should take the form of a text file (.doc or .pdf) with a maximum of 1,000 words (either a short text or excerpt) and include an English translation as well. The deadline for submissions was 18 August 2023. Selected authors will be contacted no later than 23 August. 

Please keep in mind that performances will be limited to six minutes. Remember to bring your energy, passion, and a receptive ear for the other performers.