Rack

a classroom if you will
no acts of kindness
more like the answer
to the question
are we paying attention

back in sixty-five
forty second and San Pedro
backroom of the barber shop
racking pool balls for pennies
or whatever them players
saw fit to handout 

hustle in some folk’s eyes
scripture in others
Gandhi or Elijah Muhammad 
Jesus over Iceberg Slim

a world like a bordello
filled with pimps and Johns
and the only ho' in the room 
was me

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Laura Breidenthal

Date: 3/20/2018 9:22:00 AM

"are we paying attention" Stands out -and of course the last line, I'd be shaking too lol Another greaat one to listen and read today, Richard. Your words hold great impact. I really enjoyed your beautiful poetry this morning.

Ricky Muse
Date: 3/20/2018 7:22:00 PM

Thanks lady. From childhood memory to poem. I like when that happens. Thanks again.........peace!

Leanne Lovejoy-Burton

Date: 3/10/2018 7:50:00 PM

LOVE IT.

Ricky Muse
Date: 3/11/2018 7:25:00 AM

Leanne I thought my little poem about growing up in Los Angeles would go unnoticed. Thanks for taking the time..........peace!