The Gangster Effect, by Marvin Wade
The gangster. In the hood the most respected and revered man. He can--do no wrong to his fans. Doing nothing right is his plan. We're fighting amongst ourselves Black Man. Without a care. It's not fair--to The kids--As they stare--we still share--the violence and the pain with each other--like--here--take this gun.
The gangster. He performs on a corner. Not on a stage like this. With a gun. Not a mic. Doesn't matter whether he hits or misses his intended--target ends up being little kids or the elderly. Boasting towards those in attendance, "You muthafuckas ain't gonna tell on me!" And yes only to that will they testify. Afraid of taking the stand. Afraid of taking a stand. But I do understand. This no-snitching policy fam, is not for a damn civilian.
The gangster. No arena can compare to the Colosseum of the streets. Listen to it while it speaks. When you leave you'll come back to me. Back to the yelling and screaming of your fans and victims. Here I am. Look into my bright lights. Hypnotizing you on sight. Got you itching for a fight. Your favorite rappers can attest. They've all had success. But no amount of money at the top will allow you to rest, except in peace. Like Pac.
The gangster. Are we the blame? You? Me? The powers that be? We cheer and root for him in the movies. Our favorite scenes involved him with a gun. Being used to abuse to amuse one. So can we finally say goodbye to the bad guy. Or would you rather say hello to my little friend. C'mon you remember them--lines we must draw in the sand. Help separate the Man from his gun and his bullet proof vest--that protects what's beneath the surface. Your true purpose. They want Us to hurt Us. Time to die for a cause. Not be-cause this nigga this and that nigga that. It's all wack. Let's get it back-my Brother! Recognize your worth my Brother! A king since Birth My Brother! You can awaken that true you my Brother! By believing in that true you my Brother! Like I Believe in that true you my Brother! like the community believes in that true you my Brother! It's Long live the King my Brother! Not that gangster you my Brother! It's Long live the King my Brother! Not that gangster you my Brother!
Peace! Power! Control!
Marvin Wade is a Spiritual Activist and family Man, born and raised In Brooklyn, NY. Marvin joined the Re/Creation Bed-Stuy writing workshop in 2019, after participating in a writing class being held in Queensboro correctional facility by Professor Joni Schwartz and joining the group upon his release after 25 years. While incarcerated, Marvin wrote multiple books’ worth of stories, novels, and personal essays on every bit of paper he could find, combining his gift as a storyteller with the art of writing. As part of the re/creation workshop Marvin has had numerous dispatches that he's written appear on the website. From titles such as, "The conditioned state of America " to "Time and Prison, are they mutual exclusive?" His poem “Where I’m From” is featured in Voices of Fortune 2020 literary magazine. Marvin also took part in the, "We choose to bloom" film as part of a joint venture between Fortune Society and MOMA. Look for many great things to come literary and Spiritually from Mr. Marvin Wade.
Instrumental: 2pac—”Breathin’”