By: Ashley Reynolds, Staff Writer
The Asia Project, which is actually just one poet named Asia, visited the University on Feb 22. He was accompanied by his brother-in-law, Jollan Aurelio, who plays guitar as a backdrop for Asia’s poetry.
Hardly anyone moved as Asia performed. His words immediately captivated the audience, forcing them to look at their own lives. Audience members laughed as he talked about the 90’s and growing up in a Filipino household. Minutes later, they were moved to silence as he mourned the recent death of his sister.
Asia has earned a name for himself as an artist. In 2006, he was named Promotion of Campus Activities’ Performer of the Year, and has since performed on HBO’s “Def Poetry” and BET’s “Lyric Café.”
One of Asia’s most famous works, “The Supersonic Speed of Charmin,” compares his life to that of his father.
“My father serves salvation like six o’clock mediation to folks who think of communion as frequent flyer miles we rack up to get to heaven,” he said.
It’s hard to believe just a few years ago, Asia was ready to give up on poetry. It was at that point he was diagnosed with cancer. After his recovery, he vowed to pursue his love for poetry instead of working a job he hated.
Two student poets, Tarah Jeannis and Nydjah Istatia, opened the show with their own work. Tarah reflected on temptation and her life in Haiti, while Nydjah spoke about her brother who is still struggling to escape a hard life.
Students remained long after the show was over to talk, take pictures, and buy CDs.
