Behind the Mask

by Bria Roberson-Gresham

Saturday 14th August 2021 8:01 am

While viewing a black man I see more than just his mask

I see damage strain and the wounds of his reality

Envisioning their endured generational adversity

Depicting the torment, flesh torn and mental agnony

Visualizing present time then reversing to slavery

Desecrating the black mans strength, demanding an end to his legacy

Weeping from the tales of abuse cascaded by the Man

Now in the present with low wages and incarceration

Fearing for my descendants

Dreading the injustice that materilizes when its my time to give birth to my black man

Comments

<Deleted User> (32907)

Thu 2nd Dec 2021 00:18

I can feel the emotion in your poem, and the last line really hits home
Slavery was a disgusting crime against humanity. . Yes there were many hardships in the 1800's, but the victims of those injustices were free.
There is only one word that describes slavery. Evil. Those people had no rights whatsoever . Sad to think of those souls, and the horrendous lives they were forced to live.
.?

Stephen Gospage

Mon 16th Aug 2021 17:12

This is strong, serious, heartfelt poem. The structure is the key, I think, as the last line brings home the reality and the strength of your feelings. Thanks for this, Bria.

Bria Roberson-Gresham

Sat 14th Aug 2021 19:24

Thank you. I really appreciate your feedback. I will continue to write more

Adam Whitworth

Sat 14th Aug 2021 18:19

Two points. One small, one big.

"The man" is a stereotyping phrase that risks tarring with the same brush many decent folk and true bastards.
This prejudice, like the sarcastic "boss", isn't always appreciated.
I think a well meaning poem should take care.

But the big point...

Powerful poem. Well done Bria. i look forward to reading more.

(I also agree with Jennifer's positive points)

Bria Roberson-Gresham

Sat 14th Aug 2021 17:00

But im happy that it resurrected that deeply in your spirit u had to leave a unnecessary remark

Bria Roberson-Gresham

Sat 14th Aug 2021 16:58

To each its own. Im speaking from the perspective of a black woman who witnessed and whom also was arrested and faced time to crime where she was the victim. I'm speaking on black people. If u want to hear something about ur generational adversities you should write about it

jennifer Malden

Sat 14th Aug 2021 16:11

In past times there were many injustices and harsh punishment for white men also. People were hung for forgery, sent to debtors' prisons, or transported to Australia for even minor theft, and in Victorian days child prostitution was common, and the idea of inclusiveness was not exactly popular. People who couldn't afford medical treatment could die of their illness. That has changed now, so surely there is hope for the future for black people, if they aim for a better one? Low wages unfortunately are common for many people, but not automatic incarceration, surely?

d.knape

Sat 14th Aug 2021 13:48

crime = punishment.

Innoculated or
Indocrinated?

If you wish to post a comment you must login.

Behind the Mask

Comments

Please consider supporting us