Reciting poetry isn’t just reading a poem off a piece of paper. It is a performance. One tool in the performer’s toolbox is the use of vocal dynamics. You can be louder or softer in reading your poetry and performing on stage. Think about Sam Kinnison, the comedian who used to scream almost everything. The volume helped create his persona. Les Barker is the opposite. He tends to always speak softly. In his case, it is intentional. But, a poet can be soft or loud, rowdy or timid, depending on the poem or place within the poem. Don’t deliver in a monotone or a one-size-fits-all dynamic range. By varying volume and pitch, you’ll keep the audience’s attention better.