Read the following poem.
Rhythms, Harmonies, Ancestors
(A Spirit Rap)
by Askia M. Toure
To be instantly alive, feeling the vibes
of Time's magical rhythms; a young, Black man
breathing pure air, beneath Heaven's endless blue.
Her nature itself is colorful, warm, but dangerous,
like me; or a def jam: Souljah or X-Clan walking
the land with great, Ancestor smiles. Or in close
harmony, rowing the Nile, parting the Sea,
seven brothers pulling swiftly, hot sun burning
beauty, loving strength into our sweaty backs;
a thousand Harambees sing in our topical minds!
Extension: Talk about the poem with the students. Discuss the poets ancestors- where they may be from- how the climate is where they are from etc.. Try to explain the power of the poem and how it is relating to this person's ancestors and the pride they feel. Then read the poem once more. Next have the students draw a picture of their ancestors- have them include background scenery. Finally have the students share their drawings while explaining each part of the picture they drew including where they believe their ancestors lived long ago.