ALBUQUERQUE—Local poet Kevin Lark took the stage at Luna’s Tavern, only to have his heartfelt opening line reveal unexpected family critique. “Roses are red, violets are blue. Your parents are very disappointed in you,” Lark recited, drawing stunned silence followed by awkward applause. “I guess I’ve been writing my mom’s emotional voicemail,” remarked Lark.

Lark’s poem, exploring existential dread through colorful floral imagery, unexpectedly resonated with attendees. “It’s like he reached into my childhood,” confessed audience member Sarah Greene, whose therapist was also present at the slam. Rumor has it the poem is being included in a forthcoming anthology titled ‘Family Heirlooms: The Unintentional Guilt Trip Collection.’

Poetry Slam organizer Maggie Denton explained the surprise inclusion of Lark’s piece in the winners’ circle. “We usually avoid themes of severe parental disappointment, but this hit a nerve, or maybe a root,” said Denton. Lark left the event holding a future therapy session voucher and clutching a bouquet of roses and violets, symbolic of his newfound poetic fame and unresolved family tension.