Financial Destitution Poem by Tamell Bailey

When I was little I remember strugglin’ in September
Grandmother sick in November and knew that it would continue
Until we entered - return from taxes, While March winds startin’
We earnin’ a mattress, I never had this-no sleepin’ on the floor
Finally able to cope, then the roaches crept in the door
We kept me for more - seasons than reasons we ever had to be poor
Believin’ the thesis-of what I speak-This is the American Dream?

Caring for things-that shine with a blingity-bling
Being married to C.R.E.A.M-so cash rules things around me
But the children we make together fools their bound to be
Think I need an abortion-with money I want a divorce-then
My life will feel less twisted, now it feels like contortions

Damn-rents due, been two months late
Forget shoes, need socks gotta wait
Until when, when else-the first of the month
That’s the only time I ever get what I want,
This isn’t only rhyme-what I speak often haunts
Interpersonal memories and oh no I don’t
Ever pretend to be-anything that I’m not
You won’t be offending me by calling me undershot

These are only problems, they all have solutions
But right now, it’s like a climax with no resolution
Because I’m still poor, but please don’t confuse it
I wouldn’t trade a second of my life for anything else
I love the person I’ve become without the pennies and wealth
So, I’m feelin’ myself