Harlem Hopscotch by Maya Angelou
This poem is an extended metaphor, via the children’s game of hopscotch, as a way of highlighting the struggles of Black Americans.
POEM: Harlem Hopscotch
Harlem Hopscotch
BY MAYA ANGELOU
One foot down, then hop! It's hot.
Good things for the ones that's got.
Another jump, now to the left.
Everybody for hisself.
In the air, now both feet down.
Since you black, don't stick around.
Food is gone, the rent is due,
Curse and cry and then jump two.
All the people out of work,
Hold for three, then twist and jerk.
Cross the line, they count you out.
That's what hopping's all about.
Both feet flat, the game is done.
They think I lost. I think I won.
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| About the Poet | Angelou 101: Brief guide to her poetry | Study Guide |