About five years ago I was introduced to the work of Shane Koyczan. He’s a Canadian slam poet champion, who also opened the Vancouver Olympic Ceremony in 2010. The poem below, “The Crickets Have Arthritis,” from his book, Visiting Hours, is my favorite of his pieces. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing him give two performances, one with fellow slam poet, Taylor Mali. Should you ever have a chance to see him, run to the performance. You will never want to miss him!