TheNewVerse.News : READING WHILE BLACK

Sunday, September 25, 2016

READING WHILE BLACK

by Floyd Cheung

“. . . it remains unclear whether he was holding a gun or a book at the time he was shot.” --Brian Flood for The Wrap, September 21, 2016

driving while black
we know
reading while black
also dangerous
how could it not be?

Narrative of the Life
of Frederick Douglass
provides an account
of resistance
with words and fists

Of Mice and Men
a tale of friendship
dreams and desire
in which euthanasia
is the best choice

I Know Why
the Caged Bird Sings
why Maya becomes Mary
why Maya
turns to poetry

Othello
married to Desdemona
leader of an army
betrayed by Iago
and himself

reading
waiting
dreaming
knowing
dangerous

Floyd Cheung has taught American literature at Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, since 1999. His chapbook Jazz at Manzanar was published by Finishing Line Press in 2014.

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Sunday, September 25, 2016

READING WHILE BLACK