“Life story told through rap” – Jay-Z, “Izzo (H.O.V.A.)”
Author’s note: This is a work of fiction. The only thing real about this story is the music.
B,
I write this letter to you knowing that you might not read it. Knowing that I have hurt you, betrayed you, failed you.
I write this letter from a place that you would love: a luxury hotel in lower Manhattan. The bar is open all night with visitors allowed until six in the morning. Its walls are adorned with pictures of your favorite artists and pulsate with a soundtrack to match: a touch of Sade and a revolving deck of Billie Holiday.
I write this letter drunk off expensive liquor that only rappers can pronounce, sitting in front of a couple straight out of an Edward Hopper painting. The woman is dressed in a tight red gown that accentuates her figure and complements her hair. The man is clothed in a bespoke suit resembling the gangsters from our favorite movies. I look at this couple and wonder if they have a story similar to ours. I look at this couple and resent the way their love has faded. I look at this couple and remember why I have to write you this letter.
I write this letter to apologize. I come from a line of men who lust easily and love poorly, who know how to chase women but not how to keep them. I write this not to excuse my indiscretions but to explain them. To show you the part of me that I desperately tried to hide.
I write this letter to you with a question and promise attached to it. A promise to do better, to be better. A promise to be there: in sickness and in health, in destitution or wealth.
I write this letter to you, my love, waiting for your reply.
J
Further Reading
[1] Hanif Abdurraqib, The Author Writes The First Draft Of His Wedding Vows, Electric Cereal
[2] Candice Marie Benbow, 4:43, Self-Published (Blog)
[3] Justin Tinsley, ‘4:44’ is a Shawn Carter album. JAY-Z is dead, The Undefeated
Further Watching
[1] Jay-Z and Dean Baquet, in Conversation, The New York Times (2017)
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Yours Truly,
John Noire
Damn bro...this line 😮💨
"I write this letter to apologize. I come from a line of men who lust easily and love poorly..."
“…who lust easily but love poorly.” ♥️