By Jodie Buenagua
Roll Tide, an Alabama chant.
But who are you to say Herbert Richardson didn’t deserve to see the light of day?
A misunderstood killer, no doubt.
But understand this: your killing is “constituted,”
but I beg to doubt.
Still, the red on your mallet, tell me, what is it?
A gavel to the block in a poised suit doesn’t sound like justice.
Tell me what you hear. Is it?
Go ahead, vindicate your violent ways.
Vindicate the heart you choke,
Then go home after dark, after the death and call it a day.
Take your suit and twist it tight
but be careful when you dare,
Because by your logic, blood belongs in Herbert’s chair.
An “America made great?”
That’s a joke to the glass that breaks
When it echoes the truth:
This country was shaped to murder out of hate.
But sure, keep your praise.
“Roll Tide,” or “Murder Wave”
Who said you get to say
That Richardson’s blood belongs in a grave?
About the Author
Jodie draws inspiration from observation, writing reflective stories about the people, places, and contradictions around her.