J.R. Solonche

Morris Karp

Morris Karp was born in Russia.
Morris Karp was the father of my mother.
Morris Karp came to America in 1910.

 

Morris Karp spoke only Russian.
Morris Karp learned English in America.

Morris Karp got a job operating a sewing machine in America.

 

Morris Karp made pockets for businessmen’s jackets in America.

Morris Karp made pockets for businessmen’s coats in America.

Morris Karp knew injustice in America.

 

Morris Karp did not know the word injustice.

Morris Karp was active in the union of garment workers.
Morris Karp fought for a 40-hour week.

 

Morris Karp fought for decent conditions of work.
Morris Karp fought for a living wage.
Morris Karp was beaten by a police officer on the street.

 

Morris Karp showed me the scar he got in America.
Morris Karp showed me the perfect pockets he made for businessmen in America.

Morris Karp told me something.

 

Morris Karp told me how he learned the difference between tear and tear.

Morris Karp said, A tear is a tear in your eye.
Morris Karp said, A tear is a tear in your pocket.


J.R. Solonche is the author of 38 books of poetry and coauthor of another. He has been nominated for the National Book Award, the Eric Hoffer Book Award, and three times for the Pulitzer Prize. He lives in the Hudson Valley.

 

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