Villanelle for Johnny Cash

RIP Johnny; this one is for you.

Do you wonder why I always dress in Black?
The answer lies where the desperate folks tread
It'll make you feel better to turn your back.

Upon facing truth you'd be taken aback
In delusion commonly be truth's stead
Do you wonder why I always dress in black?

So, too, are folks ignorant of what they lack
Good souls to poverty and hunger wed
It'll make you feel better to turn your back.

All around people are found set on a track
They move too quickly to know where they head
Do you wonder why I always dress in black?

You think it's just some left behind by the pack
Hardly can you tell it's very widespread
It'll make you feel better to turn your back.

Humanity is held on by a noose that's slack
Millions exist who've never written nor read
Do you wonder why I always dress in black?

It'll make you feel better to turn your back.

Author's Note

This is a poem written in Villanelle form as a tribute to Johnny Cash. His song "Man in Black" is an important piece of social commentary that illuminates often neglected issues in our classist culture; this piece attempts to capture that passion.

Reviews

[Niall Madden]

I enjoyed the poem, the idea that the lower and less fortunate are left behind to live off crumbs rather than receive the aid needed. Well written and good message.

[Theodore Velvet]

Thank you!

[Niall Madden]

not a problem