The University of Missouri - Kansas City’s BkMk Press, in association with New Letters magazine, is hosting a remembrance and celebration of life for nationally renowned local poet Mbembe Milton Smith.

Smith, who committed suicide in 1982 at only 36, grew up in Kansas City’s ghetto during the 1960s' civil rights movement. This largely contributed to his personal development and influenced his writing.

Suffering from mental illness, he found refuge and release in writing. Initially self-taught, Smith eventually tried formal education. He became the first person to receive a double major in English and Creative Writing in the Master’s program at UMKC.

In 1972, Smith took the name Mbembe, Swahili for "smooth-tongued one." The name is an homage to his African heritage and his capabilities with words.

Friends and family were shocked at his death. According to UMKC’s website, his former teacher, Dr. Jeremiah Cameron (a retired PVCC professor) recalled a character from the Broadway Musical Purlie, who sang this lament: “I have these wings, and they won’t let me fly.”

Eerily, after his death, a poem entitled "Prophecy" was found, describing his anguish and demise. It became his suicide note.

The tribute honoring Smith’s life and his work will be held on November 28 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blue Room, located at 1616 E. 18th St.

A list of his works can be found at UMKC’s website, http://www.umck.edu.

Copyright 2006 Metropolitan Community College