THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW: The Essential James Baldwin
He wrote with the kind of clarity that was as comforting as it was chastising. Here’s where to start.
Hello Family,
I had the distinct honor and privilege of writing about James Baldwin for a series in The New York Times Book Review. The series highlights the works of great writers for audiences who may have never read them and would like guidance on where they could begin.
This was extra special for me as this year is the 100th anniversary of Baldwin’s birth. He and his contributions mean so much to me. He is the first person thanked in the acknowledgements section of my debut novel, The Prophets, where I wrote:
It is in your name that I found the justice that my heart craves, the fairness that my mind seeks, the peace that my soul remembers, and the triumph that my body has been waiting for. You asked that we find you in the wreckage. We did that, “Pop.” Now we shall gather the pieces and build you a fine altar to your intellect, light candles, and love you the way you loved us: with gratitude.
And James Baldwin did love us. That is why he was so relentless in telling us the truth, no matter the risk to himself or the discomfort for everyone else. He was not without his flaws (who is?), but his commitment to the liberation of our people and the restoration of true humanity in the world was enormous. And with the works he left behind, he continues to teach, love, inspire, and challenge.
As the author, public speaker, and minister Danté Stewart says:
“I feel Baldwin’s heart and mind can be a creative force to give me the hope that I often don’t feel, and the courage to allow my heartbreak to break me open instead of close me up. I think that if there is anyone to lead us through an election year — to help us ask the right questions, make the right demands, fight the good fight, and stay human — it is James Baldwin.”
And I know that is true because as I am confronted with the news of children being casually and guiltlessly obliterated, at home and abroad, I am reminded of something he said:
Thank you, hallowed Ancestor James Baldwin, for all that you endured, all that you witnessed, all that you testified to, and how mightily you loved. I truly hope that your living was not in vain.
To read “The Essential James Baldwin,” please click on the following link:
May you find his work as stirring as I have.
Blessings upon blessings,
Robert