Landlord, landlord, <br />My roof has sprung a leak. <br />Don't you 'member I told you about it <br />Way last week? <br /> <br />Landlord, landlord, <br />These steps is broken down. <br />When you come up yourself <br />It's a wonder you don't fall down. <br /> <br />Ten Bucks you say I owe you? <br />Ten Bucks you say is due? <br />Well, that's Ten Bucks more'n I'l pay you <br />Till you fix this house up new. <br /> <br />What? You gonna get eviction orders? <br />You gonna cut off my heat? <br />You gonna take my furniture and <br />Throw it in the street? <br /> <br />Um-huh! You talking high and mighty. <br />Talk on-till you get through. <br />You ain't gonna be able to say a word <br />If I land my fist on you. <br /> <br />Police! Police! <br />Come and get this man! <br />He's trying to ruin the government <br />And overturn the land! <br /> <br />Copper's whistle! <br />Patrol bell! <br />Arrest. <br />Precinct Station. <br />Iron cell. <br />Headlines in press: <br />Man Threatens landlord <br />Tenant Held Bail <br />Judge GIives Negro 90 Days In County Jail!<br /><br />Langston Hughes<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/the-ballad-of-the-landlord/
