For Ntozake

FOR NTOZAKE

As I held her in my arms

she cried

as I washed the blood

she died

a little

rejuvenation of the spirit starts with love

love breeds love

hate breeds hate

but, understanding is the path to freedom

I know what she meant

when she talked of suicide

and rainbows

and just for your information,

they have no end.

Written on March 21, 1993, Henderson Hall, Arlington, VA.