The main distinction between rap and spoken word poetry is that rapping is often performed to a beat, focusing largely on rhythm and musicality. However, does this equate to the complete exclusion of rap lyrics from poetry? Rap music can include many of the elements, which are mirrored in traditional poetry. However, is the use of percussion and lewd colloquialisms enough to justify its lack of recognition as poetry? It can be argued that although rap can be considered as poetic, it relies heavily on performance, music/beat and a spontaneous disposition for communicating ideas. Poetry in contrast, relies on literary devices and diction to convey meaning. The emotion of the poet’s vision is illustrated through the way the words are assembled