Mike Dorey
I am a firm believer that poetry, like so many things, should be experienced and not overly studied. So often are the beautiful words and nuances dissolved by the obligation of study and exam preparation, ruining the core of all good poetry: truth and emotion.
Enter Jude Firesong: a poet and artist who presents a carefully curated selection of his own poetry accompanied by various paintings, sketches and other art pieces, all of which provide emotional context for the words we hear as an audience and a metaphorical landscape for us to get lost in; to see the world through Jude’s eyes.
Jude informally discusses his life through his poetry, stories of how he is perceived by the world, how his queerness has informed his life and choices he has made; how previous romantic interests have started, ended and everything in between. I have particular respect for the way Jude treats the subjects of his writing, making sure the audience knows he has contacted the people references and asked for their blessing to seek publication for the work that contains stories that includes them. His morality aswell as his artistry made clear.
My experience was mesmerising, I adored the casual presentation and the clear thought and love that is poured into his poems and the engaging way in which he delivers them. My only source of disappointment is the size of the audience.
Made of Magic deserves so many more eyes and ears. These words must be heard and these stories must be told. I walked out of that performance with a renewed sense of appreciation for life, and how much respect I have for people choosing to share their in such a beautiful way, warts and all.
Recommended Drink: Espresso Martini- it’s a late night show and you better be paying attention to what you’re hearing.
Performances of Made of Magic – Poetry of Rage and (Be)longing have now concluded at EdFringe 2025.
Jake Mace
Lamesha Ruddock
