On the street outside the Newark Symphony Hall, the largest American flag I’ve ever seen, hung from two fire-department ladders. A half a dozen golden hearses drove under the flag and pulled to a stop.  Amiri Baraka’s blonde oak coffin was pulled out of the golden wagon amidst the sound of a dozen drummers and passed through a gauntlet of men and women who gave their friend, spokesmen and comrade a final farewell. So began the three-hour fist shaking, tear jerking, evocation and celebration of the life and times of one of our countries great poets.  Here is a short excerpt that combines some shots I took during the service with Cornel West’s comments about Baraka.  – Henry Ferrini

Amiri Baraka at the Cape Ann Museum discussing Olson

Part 2