News from Harlem (Kwame Dawes)

I like this poem by Kwame Dawes.

I normally shy away from lengthy poems, but this one was so story-like. It instantly drew me in and kept my attention. It was not difficult to read, nor did it have convoluted grammar.

It talks of race and history and legend.

I would like to hear the poem read aloud. I think that could only add to its dramatic presence.

Favorite line: "one of / those black men you know never / had a doubt that he is a man and strong"