Since I don't remember us really getting to talk about Jessica Care Moore's poems, Ill just share a little bit of what I thought about them.
One of my favorite parts in her princess poem was when she talked about “them” (government, whites and others) being surprised that princess and her people “decided their own fate.” She also says, “Why do you think they love Oprah, but hated Beloved? Black folks ain’t allowed to be magic.” To me this points out that under the white gaze we are only allowed to be anomalies. Oprah is an anomaly for them. Jay-z. President Barack Obama. They hated Beloved partially because she came back in a form that they could not understand spiritually. They only understand their religion. Their Christianity. Where the hell did this supernatural black woman come from? Just what is she supposed to represent? Anyway those parts remind me of how slave owners went through hell and high water to prevent slaves from escaping and how that has not yet changed (i.e. attempted prison escapees).
The five year plan (or lack thereof) poem made me proud of the mind of black women. People are so quick to box us in and label us, not realizing the endless opportunities we have (or would like to have). The imagination and mind are in continuous motion. Because a woman doesn’t articulate her thoughts, write them down, seek a degree or any other thing that would say “She’s a thinker,” does not mean that she is unaware of what goes on around her. She was well aware of her position, different options she had or didn’t have and the time frame. I loved it.
The final poem Colorstruck reminded me of this stupid #teamdarkskin #teamlightskin that continues. I absolutely agree with poem; if a person puts you on a pedestal because of your skin color-don’t be flattered. Be offended!
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