And
Black Love
We talked about
Women
And Black men
No doubt many important
Resolutions
Were passed
As we climbed Malcolm's ladder
But the most
Valid of them
All was that
Rap chose me
Serious political issues take second place in this poem to Giovanni’s relationship with HRB, who became a close personal friend. Giovanni has been criticized for choosing an individual over ideology, which is arguably counter-revolutionary. 
 On the contrary, Nikki Giovanni could be referencing her love for rap music. Giovanni has stated she has been heavily influenced by African American artists and activists. Giovanni dedicated her book “Love Poems” (1997) to rap artist Tupac Shakur. She even tattooed “Thug Life” on her forearm in tribute to Shakur. She stated: “I rather be with the thugs than the people who are complaining about them.” 
 Nikki Giovanni displaying her “Thug Life” tattoo: 
 
 Fowler, Virginia C. Nikki Giovanni. New York: Twayne, 1992. Print. [ ]
Detroit Conference of Unity and Art For HRB