Madam!

"My name is Johnson-
Madam Alberta K.
The Madam stands for business
I'm smart that way.


I had a
HAIR-DRESSING PARLOR
Before
The depression put
The prices lower.


Then I had a
BARBECUE STAND
Till I got mixed up
With a no-good man.


Cause I had a insurance
The WPA
Said, We can't use you
Wealthy that way.


I said,
DON'T WORRY 'BOUT ME!
Just like the song,
You WPA folks take care of yourself-
And I'll get along.


I do cookin,
Day's work, too!
Alberta K. Johnson-
Madam to you.



Madam's Past History
Langston Hughes