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Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes

Madam's Past History

My name is Johnson—
Madam Alberta K.
The Madam stands for business.
I’m smart that way.
 
I had a
HAIR—DRESSING PARLOR
Before
The depression put
The prices lower.
 
Then I had a
BARBECUE STAND
Till I got mixed up
With a no—good man.
 
Cause I had a insurance
The WPA
Said, We can’t use you
Wealthy that way.
 
I said,
DON’T WORRY 'BOUT ME!
Just like the song,
You WPA folks take care of yourself—
And I’ll get along.
 
I do cooking,
Day’s work, too!
Alberta K. Johnson—
Madam to you.

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