My name is Johnson— Madam Alberta K. The Madam stands for business. I’m smart that way. I had a

My old man’s a white old man And my old mother’s black. If ever I cursed my white old man I take my curses back. If ever I cursed my black old mot…

Gather quickly Out of darkness All the songs you know And throw them at the sun Before they melt

Night funeral In Harlem: Where did they get Them two fine cars? Insurance man, he did not pay—

I could take the Harlem night and wrap around you, Take the neon lights and make a cr… Take the Lenox Avenue busses, Taxis, subways,

Remember The days of bondage— And remembering— Do not stand still. Go to the highest hill

been scared and battered. My hopes the wind done scattered. Snow has friz me, Sun has baked me, Looks like between 'em they done

I would liken you To a night without stars Were it not for your eyes. I would liken you To a sleep without dreams

When Susanna Jones wears red her face is like an ancient cameo Turned brown by the ages. Come with a blast of trumphets, J… When Susanna Jones wears red