“Where I’m From”

Felicia Madlock

In Felicia Madlock’s poem “Where I’m From,” we are taken through the various events of Black history that have shaped and defined her stance as an American today. Ranging from her home in Mississippi to the music of BB King, we see the ways in which her heritage has greatly evolved America. It is evident she is proud of her background and the ways African American’s have made their mark throughout history. In her phrase, “I am the hope that crept north from the darkness/ Dodging demons on their quest for freedom,” the struggles and triumphs are honored, emerging success from the grounds of nothing. She puts emphasis on the way “passion’s [that have been] found” and “dreams that fight to live” are what made this culture so strong. Though there have been failures, this fire within has pushed many African American’s forward and can be represented by idols such as Langston Hughes, Marvin Gaye, and Felicia Madlock herself. Not only has Felicia’s roots brought her to the current day, but the beginning history of African American’s.

De'Andre Payton