Dreaming in Black

Tonight I am am dreaming
But it's not a dream it's real.
I am black in America.

I drink wine in dark places
I kiss a black woman.
******* her lips
I want to get it on with her.
Even though she looks like
Every woman I have ever had.

I don't have time to spare.
I am black in America.
Death hides behind every door.
The color gunmetal blue
Explodes like fire.

This minute may be my last.
I know I am hunted
Black and hunted.
In the inner city schoolroom.
Baby black faces
look into my eyes.
They ask about
rough hewn slave boats.
Of peaceful villages
by the sea in the African sun.
Of freedom and equal rights.
Of black heroes.

I try to keep them alive
To pass on in future folklaw.
But I know they are unsure
If they exist in this moment.

I drink wine in dark places
I kiss a black woman
******* her lips
I just want to get it on with her.

My blood is in rage
It's hot and boiling.
Their bloodhounds can smell me.
I inow
I will be safe
If I do what they want.
If I don't slip up.
Make a mistake and
then the gunmetal will shine.
In seedy bar lights.
And it's flash will
have the sharp kiss
of oblivion.

I awaken from the dream.
In a panic.
But it's changed me.
It will not go away.
In my heart
I am still
Black in America