James Baldwin: The Legacy

A collection of tributes from the friends and colleagues of a great writer and social critic include the words of Toni Morrison, Amiri Baraka, William Styron, Alex Haley, and others, as well as key selections from his writings

Baldwin, mentor to a generation of black artists and writers, is eulogized through essays and interviews as well as speeches delivered at his memorial service. Maya Angelou calls Baldwin her brother, in a time when "black women had a crying need for brothers." Mary McCarthy remembers Baldwin's "elegance" and William Styron describes the year that he, grandson of a slave owner, offered the use of his Connecticut studio to Baldwin, grandson of a slave: "He left a silence that to this day somehow resonates through the house." Journalist Mel Watkins introduces a vigorous discussion of Baldwin's craft, evidence of which is amply provided by "Notes of a Native Son" and other writings gathered here. The variety of texts is chaotic, but collectively the pieces demonstrate the power and influence of a major literary figure. Troupe, whose interview with his close friend Baldwin is included, won the American Book Award for poetry with Snake-Back Solos. Photos not seen by PW.
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