Poets have it tough, especially when they perform “spoken word,” which is more entertaining live than “written word,” but perhaps as poorly recognized. So to find a spoken-word open mic that lasts longer than the average latte is a real feat. But for five years, Tuesday Verses at Tropical Soul has proved a happy home for words set to rhythm, for that hidden rhyme, for metaphors floating like similes. Space fills quickly, both onstage and off, proving that even on a Tuesday there are still those who care about poetry. To honor the continued survival of the couplet, Tuesday Verses presents “Take 5,” a night of poetry with Lamar Hill, NAACP-award nominee Queen Sheba, ShadoKat and Benyblaq. PJ Morton (above), Grammy Award-winning producer for India.Airie and Jermaine Dupree, also performs, along with Jon Bibbs and soul band Chkn Grease, Tuesday, April 17, at 8 p.m. at Paradise Lounge. Tickets are $10. 644-5777. S