Poetry in the Digital Age and the Shifting Dynamics of the Literary Experience

Everything around us is evolving, and poems are no different. Both transformed and amplified, poetry has undergone some exciting changes in the modern era. This may mean little to the artist who flows with the currents of change and adapts at every turn, but the changes can be jarring for those die-hard lovers of the classics. So, whether you enjoy the rapid pace of change or are trying to keep up with the direction poetry is headed, we’re here to help. At The AVBOB Poetry Project, we embrace it all – from the enduring voices of poets hundreds of years old to the fresh new talent on the scene. Our digital platform is geared towards giving South African artists a space to be heard, and that means that we understand the importance of technology and the new forms of interconnectedness it offers.

Online Poetry Platforms and Competitions that Transcend Physical Boundaries

While we all understand that the digital age has pros and cons, one great advantage is that everyone with a device and internet can access poetry platforms. Through online competitions and digital platforms like The AVBOB Poetry Project, aspiring poets can go beyond geographical boundaries and linguistic barriers and share their work with a broad audience from all across the country and even the globe. Such initiatives encourage creatives to join and nurture a new sense of community and support among outstanding local talent. This reinforces that poetry is a living, evolving art form versatile enough to thrive in the digital realm.

The Endless Archive of the Internet

The internet is vast – much more than many people realise. As of January 2024, 5,35 billion people (66,2% of the world’s population) were internet users. This means that across continents, people connect to each other at a fraction of a second, which also changes the game for writers. The web is an expansive repository of poetic expression, housing countless verses, literary masterpieces, and amateur creations across every conceivable genre, all readily accessible at one’s fingertips. This accessibility, however, comes with its own set of challenges. The abundance of online poems, coupled with analyses and interpretations from every person who feels qualified to do so, can sometimes lead to a passive engagement with the art form. In a world where meaning is often spoon-fed, there is a danger of merely skimming the surface of poetry without delving into its depths for oneself. It’s not enough to read the academic analysis of a piece you enjoy; one should strive to experience it.

Technology and Poetry As a Bridge to the Future and Gateway to the Past

Some of history’s most progressive, future-forward thinkers were poets. There is no doubt about poetry’s role in shaping the future – and now, it is helping us embrace the past. Poetry and technology are a powerful combination in helping us connect with our roots. Through digital platforms like The AVBOB Poetry Project, individuals can access poems written in their indigenous languages that may have historically been marginalised or overlooked in mainstream literary circles. It is for this reason that we are dedicated to showcasing local talent in all 11 official South African languages, amplifying diverse voices, and elevating the cultural richness and linguistic heritage of South Africa. We invite poets and readers alike to explore, celebrate, and preserve the traditions and stories from the past that form the colourful tapestry of South African identity. Through digital connection and poetic expression, you can show the world who you are, where you are from, and keep the heritage unique to you alive.

Everyone Has a Seat at the Table

Social constructs may always exist and inevitably cause divisions, but when it comes to poetry, everyone is invited. As technology continues to change, so will poems, but human beings are, thankfully, most adaptable. Whether through social media, online competitions, or digital archives, the essence of poetry and its ability to distil the human experience into words will remain unchanged.

Are you ready to set out on your path with poetic expression? We have a remarkable collection of works from South Africans across all walks of life. You may laugh, cry, mourn, and feel inspired, but it is our hope that you remember that you do so in a community that shares these experiences.

If you would like to learn more about The AVBOB Poetry Project, speak to us here.