The Burning BushLizard’s shade turned torch, what thorns I bore Nomadic shepherds clipped. Still, I’ve stood, a soldier listening for the word, Attack, a prophet praying any ember be spokenThrough me in this desert full of fugitives.Now, I have a voice. Entered, I am lit. Remember me for this sprouting fire,For the lash of flaming tongues that lick But do not swallow my leaves, my flimsy Branches. No ash behind, I burn to bloom. I am not consumed. I am not consumed. Absolutely excellent poetry. There's something about the rhythm and lyricism of each of the poems that just makes them come alive. You never really know where each one is headed, and it's great to read them over and over, while still being able to pick up new things. A lot of the poems are persona poems, so it's helpful to have a basic understanding of who the speaker is each piece (there's a short reference guide in the back to help with this). As it says on the back of the book, the work is mainly about the history and culture that has surrounded the African American male, but you don't need to be either of these things to enjoy Please. Themes of love, violence, depression, loss, and happiness, speak to everyone.I was fortunate enough to have Brown come to my class and do a reading, which really helped bring the poetry to life. There are some readings on YouTube which I recommend listening to as you read through this excellent collection. Highly recommended!
What do You think about Please (2008)?
amazing, its rare to see a poet take a musical history until it becomes his own history
—nai
"She does not mean to entertain / You, and neither do I."
—daniee
Gorgeous, powerful, a book of clean craft and hard song.
—Morgan2012
The force/brutality of love in all its forms.
—berebere_172005
