siirapit

Siirapit is a coined term used to describe a concise, performative form of poetry designed for live reading and quick online sharing. It emphasizes spoken delivery, rhythm, and a direct aesthetic that invites audience engagement. The pieces are typically brief, often performed in under three minutes, and rely on spoken-word dynamics rather than elaborate textual apparatus.

Scholars disagree on origin; the term appears in online poetry circles in the 2010s as a neologism combining references to poetry with notions of compactness. In use, siirapit is not tied to a single tradition and has been described as a cross-genre practice spanning poetry, performance art, and micro-genre video formats.

Common features include short lines, strong cadence, abrupt tonal or narrative shifts, and a focus on immediacy. Performances may employ minimal accompaniment or none, with emphasis on breath, timing, and audience response. Many siirapit works are crafted for micro-edits in social media formats such as short videos or audio clips, where pacing and clarity of delivery play a crucial role.

Originating in online forums and reading series, siirapit has gained visibility through independent presses and digital platforms. Critics view it as a democratizing form that lowers barriers to performance, while others note how platform constraints shape its aesthetics and dissemination. Proponents emphasize its accessibility, versatility, and potential for collaborative experimentation across languages and communities.