In this poem, I’m gon’
Two step to Frankie Beverly
In this poem I’ma
Get the roux just right
I’ll burst into applause before
All the names have been called
Sit my niece between my knees
Hum oil into her scalp
In this poem I am
The glitter of a sunrise
In this poem I will
Exhale
I am Black and unhappy
To be bottled and shelved
I am Black and happy
Even if it doesn’t sell
Bearing my mouth toothed in gold
I invite the sun to preheat my smile
Warm the lore camping behind
My throat
Don’t sing in mixed company
I am not sorry.