The Court

The first time I saw you:
The flag salute.
They told us not to stare.
I could not help but notice
Your knuckles, bruised.
You spoke like your tongue was swollen.
You told your jokes in Spanish.
When you said his name
You spat.

You never set foot on the asphalt.
We sat in the grass in the outfield
Watching kids play basketball.
I wonder if you saw them.
I wonder if you were somewhere else.
They dribble the ball.
He takes the first swing at your head.
They stop, looking for a pass.
You push him, kids are gathering.
They spot an open, an arm blocks the path.
You are on the ground. He is on top of you.
He is punching you. He takes a swing at your head.
You push him. Off of you. Climb on top.
You punch. You don't stop.
You don't hear anyone. Especially not him.
You take the last swing at his head.
It cracks against the pavement.
Cheers erupt. Nothing, but net.

The last time I saw you:
The six o'clock news.
My father turns off the television.
My mother calls you a murderer.
I remember when you held my hand
When I cried for you.