Betrayal: The false promise of gang life
A poem that reveals the truth behind the façade.

By Damon R. Matthews
I gave you my best years
you rewarded me with tears.
Instead of lifting me when I was down
you created death in my inner-city town.
You told me it was “homie love,” you said it was “fo’ life”
then you produced the poisoned fruit and seduced me to take a bite.
So I pushed that G-code, prepared to do it til I got old
always putting your needs first, and putting my family’s on hold
You made me so cold
more toxic than mold.
Like four flat tires I tried to slow my roll
but you didn’t want to see me leave
you preferred to see me make others bleed.
This wasn’t love, this was hate
that left me dealing with a lotta heartbreak.
My fate now lies up north all day
at Pelican Bay
where I sit betrayed
cuz your love, you said, would stay.
Deception is your middle name
with you it’s pain and that’s no game.
Independence is a precious thang
you spotted mine and you took aim.
You. Turned. My blue skies. Gray.
I am so done doing things your way.
About the Author

A native of Los Angeles, Damon R. Matthews is a former gang member and current anti-gang crusader. He enjoys writing and performing songs and penning stories.
