How to Have a Conversation with Author James Baldwin in 2012 or Any Year - National African-American Art | Examiner.com



When a writer’s name and book titles end up repeatedly on lists of celebrated “best authors” or “best books” it is usually a strong indication they are not only worth reading but occasionally: re-reading. So it is with the Harlem, New York-born author James Baldwin (Aug 2, 1924 - Dec 1, 1987). Were he still alive on this 88th anniversary of his birth, Baldwin could smile with satisfaction at the knowledge that his masterful works continue to illuminate the shadowy depths of human existence and to help empower the lives of socially embattled individuals.

In June, the Library of Congress included the author’s classic The Fire Next Time on its initial list of “Books That Shaped America.” Chroniclers of the great author’s powerful impact on contemporary culture and history, however, started making sure in the last century that readers in this century would retain access to his legacy. In 1999, the Modern Library placed his Notes of a Native Son among the top half of “the 100 best nonfiction works of the century.” In 2011, editors at Time Magazine placed that same title on its list of “All-time Best 100 Nonfiction Books.”

Considering such nonstop endorsements of the author’s genius, it is only natural those with literary inclinations might wonder what it would be like to sit down and have a conversation with Baldwin. You can in fact satisfy that curiosity with Conversations with James Baldwin, a book of dialogues and interviews edited by Fred R. Standley and Louis H. Pratt. The selections span the full range of Baldwin’s career, 1961 to 1987, from just when his literary reputation was secured with the publication of Nobody Knows My Name until several weeks prior to his death.   

A Phenomenal Author's Timeless Voice



For the full article by author-poet Aberjhani please click the link:
How to Have a Conversation with Author James Baldwin in 2012 or Any Year - National African-American Art | Examiner.com

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