The legendary Greek figure Orpheus was said to have possessed magical powers capable of moving all living and inanimate things through the sound of his lyre and voice. Over time, the Orphic theme has come to indicate the power of music to unsettle, subvert, and ultimately bring down oppressive realities in order to liberate the soul and expand human life without limits. The liberating effect of music has been a particularly important theme in twentieth-century African American literature.

The nine original essays in Black Orpheus examines the Orphic theme in the fiction of such African American writers as Jean Toomer, Langston Hughes, Claude McKay, James Baldwin, Nathaniel Mackey, Sherley Anne Williams, Ann Petry, Ntozake Shange, Alice Walker, Gayl Jones, and Toni Morrison. The authors discussed in this volume depict music as a mystical, shamanistic, and spiritual power that can miraculously transform the realities of the soul and of the world. Here, the musician uses his or her music as a weapon to shield and protect his or her spirituality. Written by scholars of English, music, women’s studies, American studies, cultural theory, and black and Africana studies, the essays in this interdisciplinary collection ultimately explore the thematic, linguistic structural presence of music in twentieth-century African American fiction.

About the Author

Saadi Simawe is Assistant Professor of English and Africana Studies at Grinnell College, Iowa.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Store Description

Professional Book Seller offering fast shipping and hassle-free returns for every order. Our 100% satisfaction policy guarantees that you get the best product and the best service at the best price!

Visit Seller's Storefront

Seller's business information

Basi6 International LLC
1018 Camino Lago, Irving, TX, 75039, U.S.A.

Sale & Shipping Terms

Terms of Sale

Professional Book Seller shipping from Multiple Locations Worldwide for fastest delivery possible!

Shipping Terms

All orders shipped via FedEx or DHL and delivered to your doorstep within 3-5 days. We do not ship to P.O.Boxes and a proper street address must be provided to avoid any delays.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.

Shipping rates within U.S.A.
Order quantity	5 to 14 business days	3 to 6 business days
First item	US$ 0.00	US$ 0.00

Delivery times are set by sellers and vary by carrier and location. Orders passing through Customs may face delays and buyers are responsible for any associated duties or fees. Sellers may contact you regarding additional charges to cover any increased costs to ship your items.