Examine the physical book. What is on the front and back covers? Read the epigraph by Ralph Ellison and consider this interview with Smith about art and protest.
Read the dedication.
Skim the table of contents.
Think about the order of a poetry collection just like the order of a set list for a concert, a batting lineup, or a collection for a fashion show. Every item in this type of list has a purpose and a particular placement in the order. Discuss the impact of this order.
Read the first poem "Something You Should Know" as an introduction to the collection as a whole. Who is the "you" in the poem? Think about identity and why we need to read this poem first.
Explore Clint Smith's website. Read his About page and choose one of his essays/articles on the Publications page to read.
Spoken Word is poetry intended for onstage performance.
It often deals with controversial topics and issues.