The Spoken Word

Spoken word is a style of performance poetry that began in New York City and became popular in the early nineties. It evolved from the oral tradition of free-style hip hop artists and poets who would perform at local open mics. Unlike previous styles of poetry, spoken word is usually written with the intention of being performed. It emphasizes the tone of the human voice, which adds another layer of meaning for interpretation. While spoken word poems may vary in style, most have a narrative, [and] include some form of social commentary.... [Source: Wikipedia]

This spoken word piece is written by Marcus Maye, a poet, a husband, and a father of two beautiful Brown Girls.

One Brown Girl

by Marcus Maye

You can be the manifestation of class, style and grace

on your baby face

no trace

of America's scars and scrapes of disgrace.

My girls, I know by you

is how the world go;

portrayed as whores and maids but you're a pearl though.

People might treat you as second to a man

but this race would be misplaced without you.

Understand?

Things ain't always good,

but you can overcome it.

You can be born in the hood,

but you don't have to be from it.

Glass celings you'll shatter,

infinity's your summit.

Keep God in your heart, mind and soul

and you will be of one world.

America's future could be controlled

by One Brown Girl.