“The Last Quatrain of the Ballad of Emmett Till” by Gwendolyn Brooks (1960)

This poem functions as a kind of companion piece to “A Bronzeville Mother Loiters,” and is important for its contrasting form and purpose. “The Last Quatrain of the Ballad of Emmett Till” employs similar, related allusions and metaphors (ballads, quatrains, and the color red) in order to make a very different statement about Emmett Till’s murder.

“We Real Cool” by Gwendolyn Brooks (1960)

Perhaps the most famous of Brooks’s poems, this short piece reflects the experiences and struggles of urban Black youth in the United States. “We Real Cool” employs simple diction and sound devices to powerfully indict the violence and loss of young Black men in the United States.

“kitchenette building” by Gwendolyn Brooks (1963)

From her very first published collection of poems, “kitchenette building” is representative of Brooks’s early style and focus. This portrait of life for African Americans living in the urban US exemplifies Brooks’s experiences and preoccupations early in her career.

“The Golden Shovel” by Terrance Hayes (1981)

Hayes, an award-winning contemporary poet, wrote “The Golden Shovel” poem in homage to Brooks and her work.