The Long-Jumper’s Song.

What is it? Why do fans cry so loud?
What did rouse my coach to shout, “Good Lord!”?
It’s ’cause of eight-forty’s my result,
But I overstepped the take-off board.

How near was my long-wished-for reward,
But ’stead of the well-earned laurels — bitter rue...
When I overstep the take-off board,
I become a human-kangaroo.

What is it? Why do fans cry so loud?
What did rouse my rival to make a roar?
It’s ’cause of eight-sixty’s my result,
But I overstepped the take-off board.

It’s nobody’s fault, I must confess,
I can’t bear boards and borders — yes, it’s true.
The black man will win today, I guess,
He’ll be called a human-kangaroo.

What is it? Why do fans cry so loud?
All and sundry cheered in accord...
For this once, eight-ninety’s my result,
But I overstepped the take-off board.

What to do, O people, who can say?
The black man does hold my title, it’s occurred...
If that board is set aside one day,
I’ll defeat America for sure!

What is it? Fans seem to be asleep,
Commentators’ look are sad and bored.
Now eight-seven — that’s how long I leap
When I take off right before the board.

1971.