Etheridge Knight's first book of poetry, Poems from Prison, was acclaimed by poet Gwendolyn Brooks with the words "This poetry is a major announcement." Since its publication in 1968, Knight's reputation has grown steadily, and he has read his poetry throughout the nation. He has edited a collection of prison writings, Black Voices from Prison. Belly Song has as introduction a moving lettter written just before Knight's release from prison. Some of the poems were written in prison, others after his release, but they all show the increasing power and sensitiveness of his often anquished poetry.

The idea behind Prison, Poetry, and Purpose-Full Songs can be taken both literally and metaphorically. Literally, this was inspired by the two million plus who are locked behind bars every single day that I wake, eat, work, and sleep. However, the audience is geared toward an even larger crowd, those who remember and maybe still do buy into the lies our society teaches, which imprisons us and imprisons our mind. I write this for all those who can remember what it's like to listen to the voice inside your head that judges you harsher than the world can ever judge you. For me, that voice came in a very specific way under very specific circumstances, and I've witnessed it in others in very specific ways under very specific circumstances. But don't let the specificities make you feel as if you cannot relate to it because you can. Because I'm you, and you're me.