In lieu of an abstract, here is a brief excerpt of the content:

23 Claustrophobia Wherever I am in this vast world I feel the pressure encroaching Violating my right to life One of God’s own creations. The persecution, rock solid, palpable Even as hypocrites smile with me From their lips instead of the belly. At one place I am Anglo-minority And so I do not belong, And could very well go elsewhere, My responsibility it is to survive Amidst the chosen ones Of the malnourished Francophonie assembly. At another place I am black “Beelzebub’s alter ego” they say, And so I do not belong Else I am barely tolerated, For my strength, a labor hand. Goodness, now I am suddenly The oppressor, a man—male! Women can’t stand me either, except To share in the nocturnal apple. Pray Lord, led Heaven be different, Bigger and free, free of race, color, and gender, That at last I may find room and peace, Room enough for me to have space, Peace for me to be calm and without worry at last For being the one you created. ...

Share