Appalachian Elegy: Poetry and Place (Kentucky Voices)

by bell hooks

To be raised in a world where crops grown by the hands of loved ones is to experience an intimacy with earth and home that is lost when everything is out there, somewhere away from home, waiting to be purchased.

earth that is all at once a grave a resting place a bed of new beginnings

there are no sides there is only the angry mind of hurt bringing death too soon destroying all our dreams of union

on hallowed ground I cast the circle that there may be haven for the lost refuge and sanctuary turning to the hills

souls grieving earth laments cries out loud that justice may come that it is never too late

no way to choose life when greed brings the constant sound of death calling away deliverance