Voices from Appalachia

Coal Black Voices gives a fresh, interesting perspective on both Appalachian and African American culture. These poems take influence from the Harlem Rennaisance and contemporary issues, but rather than the typical urban cultural centers or rural far South, these poems show a glimpse of the lives of blacks in rural and suburban Kentucky, a rarely heard viewpoint; many are not even aware of the existance of an African American community there. Many of my classmates have already posted some of the best poems, but here are a few more of my favorites:
http://coalblackvoices.com/poets/kelly/index.html Kelly Norman Ellis - "Raised by Women"
http://coalblackvoices.com/poets/frank/healer.html Frank X Walker -  "Healer"
http://coalblackvoices.com/poets/paul/index.html Paul C Taylor - "The Execution Will Not Be Televised"
PS: Definitely watch the videos of the poets reading their poems if you get a chance. They're fantastic.

-Eliana