Uptown Flava BK Style
by Shamarie Knight
Genre: Urban Fiction
Uptown keeps making it, and Brooklyn keeps taking it.
The long-standing rivalry between Harlem and Brooklyn persists at the High School of Environmental Studies, where the flashy Fly Boys of Harlem and the grimy Crooklyn Crew from Brooklyn are in constant conflict.
The tension is palpable, and when their beef gets personal, the outcome of their inevitable clash is uncertain. However, one thing is sure - it will not be a pleasant sight.
DeVante strode down the bustling streets of Sugar Hill, the vibrant heart of Harlem, on a warm and sunny Wednesday draped in a Sergio Tacchini tracksuit. The city’s energy pulsed around him, with cars honking, people shouting, and music blasting from all directions. Suddenly, a sleek white BMW convertible cruised with the windows down, and the classic song “Sugar Hill” by rapper AZ blared from the speakers. DeVante felt the deep bass vibrate through the pavement, and the song’s lyrics transported him back to the golden age of hip-hop. The smooth and melodic beat and the gritty lyrics perfectly captured the essence of the neighborhood, and DeVante couldn’t help but nod his head assertively along to the rhythm. As the car disappeared down the street, he felt a sense of nostalgia and pride wash over him, knowing that he was an integral part of the rich history and culture of Harlem.
DeVante walked up to the door of Sadira’s apartment and knocked twice. The door opened, and Sadira appeared, dressed in a flowing silk robe with her hair tied back in a bun.
“Hey, DeVante,” Sadira said, her voice soft and sultry. “Come on in.”
DeVante kissed her. “What’s up, girl? I’m glad we didn’t go to school today. It’s a half day, and I’d rather be chillin’.”
DeVante entered the apartment, and the sweet aroma of incense and candles filled his nostrils. The space was dimly lit, with warm orange and yellow hues casting a cozy glow across the room. Hot 97 played in the background, and running water could be heard from the bathroom.
“Make yourself comfortable,” Sadira said, gesturing towards the couch. “I’ll be right back.”
DeVante deduced that her mother had already departed for work as she was absent in the living room. “Thank God your mother is not home. She definitely would have been screaming at me for being here.”
Sadira laughed. “You know it. I see looking you like a Brooklyn dude with that Sergio Tacchini on,” Sadira jested. I see you, Biggie Smalls.”
“Don’t start no shit, girl,” DeVante replied playfully. “You know, I’m a Harlem American. I was born fly!”
“Big Poppa.” Sadira winked as she disappeared into the bathroom.
Shamarie Knight was born and raised in East Harlem, New York, and after graduating from the High School for Environmental Studies in 2000, he decided to continue his education at the Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC) to study Business. Later, Shamarie transferred to City College of New York in 2005, where he pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Science with a minor in Creative Writing, which he completed in 2009.
Throughout my life, I have always been passionate about writing. I draw inspiration from various mediums such as television shows, movies, music, music videos, and books. Writing allows me to express myself freely on paper and share my ideas. It's not just a hobby but a way of life for me. If you want to read more of my work, you can check out some of my other pieces on Medium.com. Be blessed, and stay safe.
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