In Danger of Appropriation (16-bar Hip Hop style)

I’ve always lived a life of experimentation
Following every new infatuation
Taking inspiration from whatever the station
But now I’m in danger of appropriation

Because a poem’s a style, and a style has got rules
Words are like colours and rhythms are tools
To carve out a voice, and make fuel for us fools
Nobody owns words, they’re poetry’s jewels

But Hip Hop has grown from a certain existence
A life that stands at a significant distance
I’ve never been treated as a second-class citizen
I’ve never been stopped ‘cause I’m under suspicion

I don’t want to steal, but to honour and understand
I’ll never call this style mine, it doesn’t come from my hand
But to use this brand, I need to take a stand
When my fear of appropriation fights my fear of being bland

 

December 2024

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