Student Reveals Poetic Talent During African-American Read-In

February 22, 2009 by Abigail Canonico

Hidden talent revealed itself at the African-American Read-In Feb. 5, when Columbus State student Michael Fleming shared his own poem, “Life As An Adolescent.”

Students and professors gathered in Nestor Hall to read aloud the memorable words written by such writers as Maya Angelou and the inaugural poet, Elizabeth Alexander.

Not too long after the read-in began, Michael Fleming’s name was announced as the next reader, and Fleming appeared hesitant. Fleming had appointed a fellow classmate to read his own poem for him, but soon stood from his seat and decided that the audience would benefit if the poem were heard straight from the heart of the writer himself.

Fleming’s poem touches on the temptations that adolescents face, especially African-American adolescents, while also sharing with readers the turn that he made toward religion when he felt as though he had no where else to go.

According to Fleming, “Yes, there were many temptations, from marijuana, alcohol, gangs, nicotine, [and] sex.” The poem focuses on the blunt and unfortunate truths that young adults must face when growing up into adulthood.

Fleming experienced these enticements as an adolescent first hand, but soon learned that the path he was headed down was not leading him into the right direction.

“I was just feeling really down; to the point I did not want to live anymore. I got on my knees and started praying and crying; and from that day in my bedroom I have not been the same,” says Michael, sharing the point at which he hit rock bottom.

This poem written by Michael Fleming was a moving poem for many. The poem was honest and beautifully written, which is why many of the listeners, especially those that are young now, can especially relate.

Africentric students made a visit to campus to participate in the read-in and shared nothing but positive reviews.

Christ Hartway, a student from Africentric said that the poem, “related to African-American adolescence today – what we’re going through and what we experience.” When asked if he believed that temptations such as drugs, violence, and sex exist today among adolescents, Hartway responded, “Oh yeah.”

Another fellow Africentric student said that Fleming’s poem had, “a lot of truth. [We are] around a lot of drugs and guns, and it’s easy to fall into stuff like that.”

Author of the book, “Journey: Story of the Wounding, Healing, and Triumph of a Family,” Anthony Littlefield, also attended the read-in, sharing an excerpt from his self-written book during the event.

As a published author, Littlefield said that, regarding Fleming’s poem, “[it is] always encouraging to see young people willing to share something.” Anthony continued to share that the poem was, “moving because it was something dear to him that he had never shared before.”

Friend and classmate of Michael Fleming, Neka Wagner, said that Fleming, “speaks from the heart.” She continued to share that these temptations exist, “of course, especially in society now.”

“Writing poems is all the writing I have ever done,” says Fleming. He then shared what he believes to be the most profound line in his poem: “Transcending above my peers; they loved and hated me too.”

When asked what advice he would give young adolescents today as they come face to face with these forementioned temptations, Fleming said, “Wow! I would have to say that when things seem dismal, don’t disperse, [but] look inward, and let God take away the hurt…Try to seek a person who went through the same struggles.”