Madam's Past History by Langston Hughes

This is the first in a series of poems written by Langston Hughes about a fictional serial entrepreneur named Alberta K. Johnson, who insists on being addressed as "Madam". I like Langston Hughes a lot, and I like Madam a lot. I'm using Black History Month as my excuse to introduce you to Madam, and I hope that when I'm done, you'll like her too.

I have the song "Bills, Bills, Bills" by Destiny's Child running through my head when
Madam talks about getting mixed up with a no-good man.

I tried to find the song about the WPA to which Madam is referring, but did not succeed.

My name is Johnson—
Madam Alberta K.
The Madam stands for business.
I’m smart that way.

I had a
HAIR-DRESSING PARLOR
Before
The depression put
The prices lower.

Then I had a
BARBECUE STAND
Till I got mixed up
With a no-good man.

Cause I had a insurance
The WPA
Said, We can’t use you
Wealthy that way.

I said,
DON’T WORRY ’BOUT ME!
Just like the song,
You WPA folks take care of yourself—
And I’ll get along.

I do cooking,
Day’s work, too!
Alberta K. Johnson—
Madam to you.



This poem can be found in the book Selected Poems of Langston Hughes.