Slavery (Part 6) Poem by Alto Lee Thomas, Jr.

Slavery (Part 6)

Rating: 5.0


Dat’ bastaad masta’

Creepin’ drunk to da quatahs’
When nighttime come


D’ole mammys say,
'While he havin’ his way'
“Letcho’ mind run t’peace, ”

But I ain’t got no such’ peaceable’ place.
Jus’ beddin’ wit’ d’hate I’hold …

Dat’ bastaad masta’

I feels like a brood sow
What he done to me

All dem yella’ babies
Drove my man t’crazy

Dat’ bastaad masta’

Sold my black babies
My Ma and my Pa

Damned me, to plant’ his fields
And reap’ his blood

So I planted dat’ bastaad’ masta’
In d’gotdam’ mud

Thursday, March 6, 2014
Topic(s) of this poem: slavery
POET'S NOTES ABOUT THE POEM
Part 6 of 10 parts.

I have published materials on this site for many years. I have wrestled with the prohibitions concerning this particular poem (actually this series) with regard to Poemhunter's publishing rules. The subject matter is 'dark' and certain words run the risk of being labeled harshly. The poem is written in a Southern Negro dialect and I suggest, therefore, avoids adverse labeling. However, because of the subject matter I think it is necessary, and important, that it be submitted 'as is.'

Slavery is a shameful, horrible, and terrible part of our country's history. But it did occur and it affected a huge class of our citizenry. I think this subject matter demands (artistically and historically) realistic depiction.

I hope that my interpretations does not run 'afoul' of your policies and regulations. If so, I will try to understand. However, I expect to be able to see my other, less provocative, works remain on this site. I appreciate this site and consider is a privilege to submit my work for public perusal.

Again, it is a privilege to post and read the works of my fellow poets. Thanks.

Respectfully,


Alto L. Thomas, Jr.
COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Jazib Kamalvi 07 January 2020

Write comment. Such a nice piece, Alto. Read my poem, Love and Iust. Thanks

0 0 Reply
Douglas Scotney 06 March 2014

well done. Plantin' mastas should be ok

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READ THIS POEM IN OTHER LANGUAGES
Alto Lee Thomas, Jr.

Alto Lee Thomas, Jr.

Jacksonville, Florida
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