Millions of tears have fallen for black sons, brothers, lovers, and friends whose assailants took or maimed their lives and then simply went on their way.

And now we step to the rhythm of miracles. --from The Light, That Never Dies

The study of history empowers nations and individuals with an ability to avoid errors of the past and lay foundations for victories in the future.

While it is unlikely that poetry or art shall eliminate the reality of war in the twenty-first century, it is thrilling to know there remain individuals, and even entire communities, still willing to invest in art and poetry's own uniquely explosive contributions to the great, and small, dramas of human history.

At the edge of madness you howl diamonds and pearls.

What a lover’s heart knows let no man’s brain dispute.

Michael Jackson National African American Art Examiner Series