A Beautiful Threat

By: Miesha.Sadé

did you hear that?

it wasn’t thunder,

but it still pierced the room.

and glowed.

like fireflies in mason jars,

to savor this moment.

protect it, rather.

because

America often disapproves,

but when it happens,

dare not move.

stand still.

paint it on canvas.

photograph it even.

too often,

it is unheard.

hidden.

or considered violent.

but-

wait,

there it is again.

the sound...

of a black man smiling.

(a beautiful threat)

Photographer: Isaiah Shembo

Email: isozay0@gmail.com

Instagram: @zay.shotit

Website: https://isaiahshembo.com/

---

Read more from Miesha.Sadé in chameleon: a collection of poetry and prose