One Man's Family

By Marcus B. Christian

Samson, your cotton is short this year;

Samson, your rent is due;

Samson, your grocery bill is here --

You must do something, too!

Lizzie, you got the washing done?

Lizzie, you scrubbed the floors?

You washed the blankets -- everyone?

And the glasses on the doors?

Mamie, girl, did you sweep the walk?

And straighten up each room?

The only thing you love is to talk --

And how you hate a broom!

Lizzie, is Samson doing well?

-- I'm speaking of his crop --

My husband says when Samson's well

These lingering bills must stop.

Samson's boy has a yellow girl;

Hair that sings to the winds a song;

Supple body and teeth like pearl:

So work is short -- love song.

Samson's boy takes his cue from life;

Where there's no need to strive nor worry;

Takes deep laughter and joy to wife

And say, "Let white folks worry."

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