Felicia Santiago: A favorite poem

And Tomorrow
by Tupac Shakur

I really like this poem because it reminds me of the kind of poetry I write and the way that I think. I like how it sounds when I read it aloud. I think that it could mean a lot of different things to different people, which is good. Poetry can be very diverse and affect people in different ways. Tupac is a well-known lyricist and anyone who has followed his work would be familiar with his poetry. I had never seen this one in particular but I do love it a lot.

Today is filled with anger
fueled with hidden hate
scared of being outcast
afraid of common fate
Today is built on tragedies
which no one wants 2 face
nightmares 2 humanities
and morally disgraced
Tonight is filled with rage
violence in the air
children bred with ruthlessness
because no one at home cares
Tonight I lay my head down
but the pressure never stops
knawing at my sanity
content when I am dropped
But 2morrow I c change
a chance 2 build a new
Built on spirit intent of Heart
and ideals
based on truth
and tomorrow I wake with second wind
and strong because of pride
2 know I fought with all my heart 2 keep my
dream alive

Tupac Shakur