Performing poetry is an egalitarian way of expressing yourself in a lonely urban environment. People regardless of race, sex, shape or class express themselves in a variety of poetic ways. Poetry Caf鳠are a Mecca and forum for the brave to express everything from love to political views to food. Both caf鳠are friendly, feature art work by local artists, have excellent menus and have their own local unconventional magical atmosphere. The Bowery Poetry Caf頩s set between Manhattan's Lower East Side and Noho and there is a decaying charm in the whole area. The Poetry Caf頩s set in a small almost non existent side street off Covent Garden and has a very laid back bohemian atmosphere. However they both differ in their emphasis: the Bowery Poetry Caf頨as a 'pack 'em in' approach with at least 2 shows every evening which can be short theatrical performances, open mike and slamming sessions with shows costing from $3 - $10. The Poetry Caf頭ainly has one event most evenings with open mike sessions that focus on various themes like unplugged nights, poetry and jazz every Saturday as well as a night for fresh talent and their shows cost from about ?1- £6. The Bowery Poetry Caf頨as a significant edge over The Poetry Caf鮠The New York space is a lot bigger. The events at The Bowery are a lot more experimental, entertaining, and have more of a buzz, for example the Urbana Poetry Slam which is hosted by the very funny Cristin O'Keefe Aptowicz. This reason brings New York on top for this round.