Pretty for a Black Girl

‘Pretty for a Black Girl’

I used to hear that rhetoric all the time.

I didn’t grow up standing in a different line

or sitting on the back of a bus.

But I never knew what it was like,

to have all the fuss.

My hair wasn’t blonde,

my eyes weren’t blue.

I’ve got big lips

And thick hips,

it’s true.

And it’s sweet.

Oh so fucking sweet.

But when you hear on repeat,

that you’re not pretty just for you,

that despite what makes me, me,

I’m still alright.

You begin to confuse insults

for compliments

and your grow up wondering,

‘Am I pretty for a black girl’?