Tuesdays with.... (#12)

This week I want to share a piece by a poet whose work I admire as much as that of Nikki Giovanni. Those of you who know me know that this means a lot. Both poets speak truth in poetic verse that is easy on the ears and heavy on the heart. I want to be clear, "heavy on the heart" is not a negative thing. When I say it, I mean their words lay on my heart and take residence there. It is a good thing... poetry that makes you feel.

This week's poet is Sonia Sanchez.

photograph by

Laylah Amatullah

Ballad

(after the spanish)

By Sonia Sanchez

Copyright 2007

forgive me if i laugh

you are so sure of love

you are so young

and i too old to learn of love.

the rain exploding

in the air is love

the grass excreting her

green wax is love

and stones remembering

past steps is love,

but you. you are too young

for love

and i too old.

once. what does it matter

when or who, i knew

of love.

i fixed my body

under his and went

to sleep in love

all trace of me

was wiped away

forgive me if i smile

young heiress of a naked dream

you are so young

and i too old to learn of love.