Song Description
Classic-style pop/rock'n'roll in the vein of Elton John or Billy Joel. Lyrical content is a meditation on the issues raised by Langston Hughes' poem "Raisin in the Sun".
| Song Length |
3:24 |
Genre |
Rock - Easy Listening, Pop - Classic |
| Tempo |
Slow (71 - 90) |
Lead Vocal |
Male Vocal |
| Subject |
Race/Ethnicity |
Similar Artists |
Elton John, Billy Joel |
| Language |
English |
Era |
2000 and later |
Lyrics
"Phosphorous"
© 2013 Capers Simmons
VERSE I
White phosphorous falls like snow in the night.
It catches on fire.
Black powder flies to the stars and ignites
Like the Fourth of July.
CHORUS
What becomes of a dream deferred?
Does it rot? Does it run?
Does it dry like a raisin in the sun?
Where does it go?
Does it explode?
VERSE II
White constables lock and load all their guns,
The boy's on the run.
Black criminals rock and roll just for fun,
The damage is done.
~ CHORUS ~
VERSE III
White criminals live their dreams in the sea,
Careless and free.
Black stevedores mix their drinks on the beach
As they fall asleep
~ CHORUS ~ VERSE I ~