The idea of recitation is usually linked to declamation.
Recitation is a concept from a Latin word that refers to the action of reciting (which means saying a speech out loud or pronouncing, by heart, verses or sentences . Some examples where the term appears are: “The recitation of the poet Andalusian moved everyone present” , “The truth is that I enjoy reading poetry, but I don't like recitations” , “The candidate's image advisor suggested that he rehearse the recitation of the speech to reach the people” .
The notion of recitation is associated with declamation , which is the interpretation of a message using a certain intonation in the voice , and also using gestural movements that help give said message a deeper meaning . The objective of recitation is to accentuate the different nuances of a text to highlight the fundamental idea of the content.
Recitation and declamation
Nowadays, recitation and declamation are often used as synonyms, although, for some specialists in the field, recitation excludes gestures and mime , focusing only on the modulation of the voice. In this sense, the recitation of a poem would consist of reading or pronouncing it aloud, while declamation would also include body movements.
These differences were more noticeable in the 19th century , when recitation was closer to acting since it involved a body interpretation with a lot of expression, movement on stage and even the use of visual elements or costumes. Over time, declamation began to look more and more like recitation.
Nowadays, when we talk about recitation, we refer to reading aloud in a public place. Generally the person who performs it is standing on a stage and is limited to reading or expressing a text aloud. The nuances of the interpretation are given by the management of the voice.
The nuances of the voice are important in recitation.
Tips for reciting a poem
One of the most popular recitations is that of poems. Below we leave you a series of steps that you could follow to adequately prepare to read a poem in public, whether it is yours or another poet's.
- Learn the poem: You should read the poem slowly and try to fully understand what the author wanted to express when writing it (or what you want it to be interpreted). The best way to understand a poem is to first look for a literal meaning and then analyze the possible second messages that can be found beneath the text (the figurative meaning).
- Read the poem aloud: You must read it many times, until you find the correct intonation for each phrase. Remember that pauses in poetry are not given by the end of the verses, sometimes you must know how to find them hidden in the middle of them; Sometimes, authors use punctuation marks to establish that space where you must stop and let the silence be part of the poem.
- Recite the poem: Stand up and try to get your voice out using the movements of your diaphragm (as if you were singing). This way you can project your voice to all corners of the auditorium and no one will miss a single one of your syllables.
- Learn to play with intensity and speed: Try to better accentuate those most important words to generate a greater impact on listeners. And remember the importance of reading slowly, so that the audience can savor each of your words and fully understand the message you are sharing with them.
If you take these tips into account, you will surely be able to give a beautiful recitation and the entire audience will be delighted with you.