“Mockingbird,” is something that you perform differently every time, incorporating the words of other poets and speakers in the program. What goes into making of this segment? What outcome do you expect?
“Mockingbird” has a gap built into it that I try to fill with standout sentences from other speakers who took the stage before me. I guess you could say I’m reciting a “remix” of the day or conference. It really doesn’t require the memorization skills that most people assume it does–memorable sentences are pretty easy to memorize. I don’t expect any particular outcome but most audiences seem to realize that I’m tipping my hat to performers (and in one case a parrot) I find talented.
If you were to describe yourself, how what would that be?
I would definitely say I’m not the kind of person who describes himself.
What have been milestones in your life? What could be your next milestone?
Learning to read would have to be #1. Followed by: learning to travel, trespass, ride a motorcycle, and make eye contact. My next milestone could be: even more eye contact.
Who has influenced you most in your life? Why?
My Mom for teaching me how to read. My Dad for teaching me how to build things. And Vincenzo Perrugia for teaching me how to appreciate art.
Rives is an American poet, storyteller, and author. He appeared on Seasons 3-6 of HBO’s Def Poetry Jam,and has been a member of Team Hollywood, which won the 2004 National Poetry Slam. His best-known poems include “Kite,” about waking up alone in a new lover’s apartment, and “Mockingbird,” which he performs differently every time, incorporating the words of other poets and speakers in the program
Are you ambitious? If yes, have you chalked out your life? Does planning help?
Not at all. Not at all. And: not at all.
How have you tackled setbacks in life? What keeps you going? Have you ever wanted to give it all up and do something else?
Sometimes I fight, sometimes I figure it out, and sometimes I quit. I honestly assume inertia keeps me going but now I’m curious if maybe it’s something or somebody else. I’ve “given it all up”–or most of it anyway–three times and it’s always worked out fine.
