You can't breathe because you can't breathe

By

Obododimma Oha

You can't breathe
When hatred surrounds you,
When meanness looks you in the eye
And mutters "Go to Hell!"

You can't breathe
When it is assumed you are already guilty
And ready to commit a crime
Or cover up one

You can't breathe
When the air detests your complexion
When that complexion is considered not normal
Or from Nature, but something evil

You can't breathe
When the weight upon you
Is encouraged to weigh you down
And, if possible, kill you.