Few writers have managed to capture the experience of living as a Black person in America the way that the late James Baldwin did.
The iconic novelist and essayist was born in Harlem in 1924, raised by his single mother for the first three years of his life. Baldwin’s mother married a Baptist minister. Baldwin had a tumultuous relationship with his stepfather but took solace in reading and writing. He was also inspired by Harlem Renaissance poet Countee Cullen.
Upon leaving high school, Baldwin, who had always been a gifted writer and student, became a freelance writer while performing odd jobs around the city. His work caught the attention of Native Son author Richard Wright, who began mentoring Baldwin and helped him secure the first of several grants that allowed him to focus on his craft and study abroad.
While in Europe, Baldwin discovered his connection to America as a Black man while also tackling the dichotomy of his sexuality. These themes would remain constant in Baldwin’s work up until his passing. (READ MORE)