Blaze-A-Page

The Puerto Rican poet known as Blaze-A-Page began doing exactly that more than two decades ago in a small project tenement in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn. As a child, Blaze bore witness to the many perils of ghetto life through his project windows. Growing up in those buildings, he was fiercely sheltered by his mother who feared the worst from their surroundings. As a result, Blaze turned to art, reading, and writing to cure his constant boredom. A hyperactive child, his first love, drawing, would serve as an outlet on the many nights he was restricted from the courtyards of the dangerous Williamsburg houses. His artwork, however, showed only a glimpse into the imagination of a child who would one day take his expressions to the stage. While attending East Stroudsburg University in 2003 Blaze would cross paths with Danny Simmons. Aside from being a revered artist and poet, Danny Simmons was also one of the driving forces behind Def Poetry Jam. During an inspirational conversation in which Simmons encouraged him to develop his talent, Blaze found a new level of inspiration and began to seriously pursue his dream to become a spoken word artist. As art surely imitates life, Blaze's life is often the source of the varied topics he covers in his spoken word pieces. As a young father he speaks candidly of the pitfalls of teen pregnancy and responsibility in pieces such as "We created Life" and "Ode to a Son". His dark, though, acclaimed poem "Welcome to my Think" is a visual journey through the mental state of a man who feels overwhelmed by all he has seen. Another highlight of Blaze's work is the cultural poem "Taino LOST" where he delves into the meaning of Puerto Rico's past and the effect it has on the present and future. With all that he has accomplished in the very short time he has been on the spoken word scene, it is only the beginning for this artist/poet. In the near future plans are pending for a clothing line based on the urban couture trends in New York. This along with a book project and appearances at venues like the Broadway Comedy Club, Nuyorican Poet's Cafe and the Capicu Cultural Showcase keeps Mr. Blaze a very busy man. Whether on the stage, the open mic, or simply laying low you never know what this poet may bring to the table next. A true New York Rican he has adapted to his environments and rolled with the punches. Without a doubt Blaze A Page will be a force to be reckoned with. Candid in his life and his art those around him at any moment should pay close attention. You never know... he just might say something!