["write about integration, segregation, and the racial state of the\nnation with black tongue in white cheek---or vice versa. Sometimes\nI try. Simple, with his beer at the bar, helps me. The other day\nMMM'MEM'MOM'MAN'MAN'MAN'MAN'MAN'MAN

Dear Citizens Councillors:

In line of what my folks say in Montgomery,
In line of what they're teaching about love,
When I reach out my hand,
Will you take it?

Or will you try to cut it off
And make a nub?

Since I found it in my heart to love you,
If I love you like I really could,
If I say, "Brother, I forgive you,"
I wonder, would it do you any good?

So long, so long a time
You've been calling me all kinds of names,
Pushing me down.

I been swimming with my head deep under water---
And you wished I would stay under till I drowned.

Well, I didn't! I'm still swimming!
Now, you're mad Because I won't ride
In the back end of your bus.

When I answer, "Anyhow, I'm gonna love you,"
Still and yet, right now today,
You want to make a fuss.

Listen, white folks!

In line with Reverend King in Montgomery,
In Montgomery---

Also, because the Bible says I must---

I'm gonna love you---

I say, I'm gonna love you!

I'll be DAMNED if I won't love you---
OR BUST!

4

"I know you are determined to read it to me," I said, "so go ahead."

"It is about that minister down in Montgomery who has committed a
miracle," said Simple.

"What miracle?" I asked.

"Getting Negroes to stick together," said Simple.

"I presume you are speaking of Rev. King," I said.

"I am," said Simple, "and this is my poem. Listen fluently now! I
have writ it like a letter, And it is addressed to the White Citizens Councillors
of Alabama. And here it goes: