"Lost Voices": Darius Simpson & Scout Bostley's Powerful Poetry

Can a poem truly ignite a revolution of empathy and understanding? Darius Simpson and Scout Bostleys performance piece, "Lost Voices," is a resounding testament to the power of spoken word, challenging norms and sparking crucial conversations about race, privilege, and social justice.

At the 2015 College Unions Poetry Slam Invitational, held in a venue pulsating with the energy of young artists, Simpson and Bostley, then students at Eastern Michigan University, delivered a performance that resonated far beyond the walls of the competition. Their piece, a powerful duet, secured them third place, but more importantly, it etched itself into the hearts and minds of the audience and, subsequently, a global audience online.

Full Name	Darius Simpson	Scout Bostley
Known For	Spoken Word Poetry, Author	Spoken Word Poetry, Activism
Date of Birth	Not Publicly Available	Not Publicly Available
Nationality	American	American
Education	Eastern Michigan University	Eastern Michigan University
Notable Work	"Lost Voices" (with Scout Bostley), "Never Catch Me" (book)	"Lost Voices" (with Darius Simpson)
Themes Explored	Race, Identity, Social Justice, Privilege	Race, Identity, Social Justice, Privilege
Awards/Recognition	3rd Place, 2015 CUPSI	3rd Place, 2015 CUPSI
Official Website (Example)	Button Poetry (Darius Simpson)	Genius (Scout Bostley Lyrics)

The heart of "Lost Voices" lies in its courageous exploration of complex themes. The piece dives headfirst into the tumultuous waters of reproductive rights, the corrosive effects of racism, and the often-unacknowledged realities of white privilege. Through the art of spoken word, Simpson, a Black man, and Bostley, a white woman, offer a nuanced perspective, challenging audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and rethink deeply ingrained societal structures. The artists skillfully use their personal experiences and vivid storytelling to dissect the struggles, discrimination, and identity crises faced by marginalized individuals.

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The poem is not just a performance; it's a dialogue, a confrontation, and an invitation. The overlapping delivery, the raw emotion, and the unflinching honesty of "Lost Voices" create a jarring yet compelling experience. It's a pointed commentary on the politics of solidarity, forcing listeners to consider the nuances of speaking for and with others. The lines are carefully crafted, each word imbued with meaning, and the delivery, both spoken and physical, is a masterclass in conveying the weight of the subject matter.

The unique aspect of "Lost Voices" lies in its structure. Simpson and Bostley, a black man and a white woman respectively, intentionally bring their differences into sharp focus. They speak in each other's voices at times, making their poem a profound commentary on the challenges and complexities of bridging racial divides. The piece forces the audience to confront the uncomfortable truths that often remain hidden beneath the surface of societal interactions. Consider Bostley, a white woman, beginning the poem with the line, The first day I realized I was black This is not a case of appropriation; instead, it is a deliberate choice to expose the intricacies of empathy and the act of listening to, and amplifying, the voices of those who are often silenced.

The poems impact, however, extends far beyond the initial performance. The poem was published on Button Poetry and quickly went viral. By 2019, the performance had garnered over 4 million views. This digital afterlife has allowed the message of "Lost Voices" to reach an even wider audience, sparking conversations and inspiring action far beyond the confines of the poetry slam circuit. The popularity of the performance can be gauged by the congratulations offered to Darius and Scout for topping 4,000,000 views, a testament to its resonance.

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In the digital age, accessibility is key. The ease with which anyone can watch the performance online has undoubtedly contributed to its widespread impact. The digital platform allows for repeated viewings, enabling audiences to delve deeper into the nuances of the piece. Watchers can find the poem online, further broadening its appeal.

The success of "Lost Voices" also highlights the power of poetry as a tool for social change. The performance isn't simply art for art's sake; it's a potent form of activism. It showcases how poetry can highlight societal injustices and spark critical conversations about race and gender inequalities. The poem becomes a catalyst, forcing audiences to question their own biases and consider their role in perpetuating or dismantling systems of oppression. The poem doesn't shy away from discomfort, it confronts it head-on, inviting self-reflection and prompting action.

The context of the College Unions Poetry Slam Invitational (CUPSI) adds another layer of significance. CUPSI is an annual event, a vibrant hub for young poets, creating a space for voices that are often marginalized in mainstream society. The fact that "Lost Voices" achieved such acclaim within this setting is further testament to its power and relevance. It is a reminder that young people are at the forefront of change, using their voices to challenge the status quo.

The themes of the poem are even more relevant and critical when considering the context. As Simpson and Bostley themselves make clear, one of the primary themes of the piece is the problematic nature of the privileged speaking for the marginalized. This is not a straightforward accusation; it's a call for deeper understanding, for solidarity built on genuine empathy and respect. It's a challenge to examine how power dynamics play out in everyday interactions and how the voices of those most affected are often overlooked or ignored.

The impact of "Lost Voices" is a testament to the power of collaboration. The poem was written by both Scout Bostley and Darius Simpson, a true partnership where each artist brought their unique perspective and experience to the project. Together, they crafted a powerful and moving piece. The fact that two artists from different backgrounds could come together to create something so meaningful is a powerful illustration of the potential for dialogue and change.

The artists' decision to address these issues through spoken word is itself a powerful statement. Spoken word poetry, with its emphasis on performance and emotional delivery, is uniquely suited to confronting these complex themes. It is a form of art that demands attention, allowing the performers to connect with the audience on a visceral level. The raw, unfiltered emotions on display in "Lost Voices" are a key part of its power.

The impact of the poem is a testament to the artists' ability to connect with their audience. Their ability to translate their experiences into art that is accessible and moving speaks volumes about their talent and their dedication to the craft. This connection is evident in the fact that the poem has been viewed by millions. The shared experience of the poem allows the audience to enter their world, to understand their pain, and to hopefully understand the impetus to drive social change.

In a world saturated with information, "Lost Voices" stands out because it cuts through the noise. The poem doesn't offer easy answers or simplistic solutions; it invites reflection, introspection, and a willingness to engage with difficult truths. It is a reminder that poetry can be a powerful weapon in the fight for social justice, inspiring change and driving progress one word at a time.

The fact that the poem took third place at the 2015 CUPSI is a notable achievement, but the true measure of its success lies in its impact on the broader cultural landscape. It has become a touchstone for conversations about race, privilege, and social justice, helping to shape the dialogue and inspire a new generation of activists and artists.

For those interested in exploring similar works, Button Poetry, the platform that published "Lost Voices," has an impressive catalog of poems and performances, including work by Sabrina Benaim, Neil Hilborn, Michael Lee, Blythe Baird, Desiree Dallagiacomo, and new releases from Brenna Twohy. By exploring the works of these poets, audiences can continue to engage with the vital conversations that "Lost Voices" has ignited.

For those wishing to explore the work of Darius Simpson, his new book "Never Catch Me" is a must-read. The book, like the performance piece, promises a deep and unflinching look into the complexities of identity, race, and the human experience.

The poem's success and the conversation around it also highlights the evolution of spoken word poetry. The art form has transcended the confines of niche audiences and has become a significant force in contemporary culture. The viral nature of Lost Voices is a testament to the power of online spaces to foster community and allow the work of independent artists to travel widely. This can be seen by the fact that the Eastern Michigan University (EMU) team earned performances on the final stage at the competition, where Simpson performed the duet poem, Lost Voices with teammate Scout Bosley.

The poem has inspired commentary. One example can be found with the golf release of the 2014 and 2015 athletic budget by Scout Bostley, which appeared in The Eastern Echo, and illustrates her other endeavors and viewpoints.

The legacy of Lost Voices endures. Through the creative prowess of Darius Simpson and Scout Bostley, audiences are consistently reminded of the power that poetry can bring. Their joint poem Lost Voices at the 2015 College Unions Poetry Slam Invitational takes a unique twist to show another side of marginalization. By continuing to use their voices, the two continue to create art that is both timely and timeless.