February is designated National Black History Month. A time to examine, embrace, and honor the collective contributions of people of color. In keeping, today's pieces will highlight the poetic works of some of the most celebrated African-American writers throughout history.

Enjoy!

In the Inner City

Lucille Clifton

In the inner city

or

like we call it

home

we think a lot about uptown

and the silent nights

and the houses straight as dead men

and the pastel lights

and we hang on to our no place

happy to be alive

and in the inner city

or

like we call it

home

Dreams

Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams

For if dreams die

Life is a broken-winged bird

That cannot fly.

Hold fast to dreams

For when dreams go

Life is a barren field

Frozen with snow.

For a Lady I know

Countee Cullen

She even thinks that up in heaven

Her class lies late and snores,

While poor black cherubs rise at seven

To do celestial chores.

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