Poetry Nights

Allegra Handelsman has so far gained recognition through her late-night poetry readings which she hosts in different venues around London. Drawing a large audience comprised of some of the city’s brightest young creatives, from the art, music, fashion and literary world, she seeks to introduce spoken word poetry to a new audience.

Many of Handelsman’s poetry nights are centred around different seasonal themes including ‘Salacious Summer,’ ‘Winder Ending,’ ‘A Season in the City.’ She also hosts an annual ‘Secrets and Confessions’ night, where all guests anonymously write down one secret, which are shared during the time, while poets read confessional verse. The purpose of this night is to create inclusive and interactive environment for not just the poets but the audience as well.

In addition to Allegra, poets have included, James Massiah, Dakota Warren and Xavier, with featured musical guests including Alfreda Maxwell and Aimée Gillingwater.

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China Cup

When I told you I was broken, I lied
I’m not broken
Why would I want to be
What’s the point in something broken


Yes it can beautiful, fetishised from a comfortable distance
But at the end of the day a broken item is simply useless
No that’s not me
At least not yet
I’m not broken
I’m just chipped


You think I’m this damaged vase smashed on the floor with ruined flowers
But that’s far too romantic
I’m not made of crystal or filled with something once pure
No


I’m just a delicate china cup from which you all drink
I’m chipping with every sip you take
And you do
You do drink from me
And you enjoy it


Because my edges are only slightly worn
Barely even noticeable
If anything they add character they add depth
My colour has yet to dull
My base can balance on a table
I still have some use


So you continue to sip
You drink me dry
Then eventually from your gluttonous consumption
Another piece will fade away
And I will finally be broken


But I’m only a china cup
So I will not be beautiful
I will not be something worth admiring
I will be useless to you all
And inevitably discarded

Allegra Handelsman