John Beecher's poem, Undesirables, was originally published in 1964. Unfortunately, it could have been written today, considering this country's attitudes towards immigration issues have always been conflicted, and the current situation has been pushed to extremes. As John points out in the poem, some of the most important people in our country's history have been immigrants, and we're far richer (both culturally and financially) for it.
lyrics
The lifted lamp is guttering,
near spent its fuel.
Double-barred the golden door
which, when it opens,
opens on a chain.
Where throngs poured through,
police interrogate each refugee:
admitting but the few
who pass security
and kiss the Book.
Would Juarez get a visa
from the State Department?
Would the FBI clear Dvorak?
- Deport the New World Symphony!
Marti, the Cuban foe of Imperialism?
Lorca, the anti-fascist poet?
These men were all subversive
as in earlier times
Tom Payne, Pulaski, Lafayette.
The authorities would surely
bar such undesirables.
credits
from The Singles - Season 2,
released July 13, 2009
cover art: "cover #92" by Tone Deaf
Conrad St. Clair: bass, keys, programming
Mike Stehr: keys
Lou Caldarola: drum kit
Chris Huntington: guitar
Aya Peard: vocals
John Beecher: spoken word
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