Urged by my respect for Frederick Douglass, I decided to share my interpretation of his words.    Being a poet and spoken word artist, I identified with the dramatic rhythm of Frederick’s speech entitled “The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro.”

I hope this excerpt from the speech will motivate African-American listeners to fight for reparations.


Bob McNeil Reading A Speech By Frederick Douglass

Tim Staley’s mellifluous voice is perfect for verse reading. He made these modest words from my book (https://www.flexiblepub.com/compositions) come alive on his Las Cruces Radio program. If I could use every synonym for the word thanks in all known languages, my need to praise him would still desire more words to express unflagging gratitude. Thankfully, his show will make people aware that my single-author anthology's sales fund the National Alliance to End Homelessness.

Tim Staley reading Bob McNeil's poetry

According to Wikipedia, the collection was originally called Sonnets from the Bosnian, but was changed to Portuguese after Robert's suggestion, perhaps stemming from his nick-name for Elizabeth: “my little Portuguese.” The sonnets are some of the some of the most famous love poems of the Victorian Age, or any other.

How Do I Love Thee By Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Along with a great talent for syllabic verse, Dylan Thomas had a bonavox. Early on in my artistic life, his voice influenced my performance style. In the Welsh writer's honor, I humbly recorded my rendition of his world-famous villanelle.

Bob McNeil Reading Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night By Dylan Thomas

Along with a great talent for syllabic verse, Dylan Thomas had a bonavox. Early on in my artistic life, his voice influenced me. In the Welsh writer's honor, I humbly recorded my rendition of his world-famous villanelle.

Bob McNeil

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