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A gifted musician¿s decision to navigate society as a white man causes an internal debate about anti-blackness and the explicit nature of intent versus impact. James Weldon Johnson presents a distinct conflict driven by a person¿s desires and overwhelming fear.
The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man follows the story of an unnamed narrator and his unique experience as a fair-skinned Black person. As a child, he is initially unaware of his race, but his mother soon clarifies their family¿s ancestry. The young man¿s ability to pass for white allows him to negate the harsh and discriminatory treatment most Black people face. This leads to a series of events that significantly shape the way he views his place in society.
James Weldon Johnson delivers a captivating tale of identity politics in the U.S. and abroad. The main character is living a life of omission that provides public gain at a personal cost. This story maintains its relevance as a critical examination of race in society.
With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man is both modern and readable.
About the author
James Weldon Johnson was born on June 17, 1871, in Jacksonville, Florida, to James Johnson and Helen Louise Dillet. He attended Atlanta University, earning his Bachelor of Arts in 1894. After graduation, he returned to Jacksonville to serve as principal of Stanton College Preparatory School.In 1900, Johnson wrote the lyrics for "Lift Every Voice and Sing," with music composed by his brother, J. Rosamond Johnson; this song became known as the Black National Anthem. He also authored The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man in 1912 and God's Trombones in 1927. His literary contributions significantly influenced the Harlem Renaissance.Johnson joined the NAACP in 1917 and became its executive secretary in 1920, serving until 1930. He was a prominent civil rights activist, advocating for anti-lynching legislation and equal rights. In 1934, he became the first African American professor at New York University.
Summary
A gifted musician’s decision to navigate society as a white man causes an internal debate about anti-blackness and the explicit nature of intent versus impact. James Weldon Johnson presents a distinct conflict driven by a person’s desires and overwhelming fear.
The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man follows the story of an unnamed narrator and his unique experience as a fair-skinned Black person. As a child, he is initially unaware of his race, but his mother soon clarifies their family’s ancestry. The young man’s ability to pass for white allows him to negate the harsh and discriminatory treatment most Black people face. This leads to a series of events that significantly shape the way he views his place in society.
James Weldon Johnson delivers a captivating tale of identity politics in the U.S. and abroad. The main character is living a life of omission that provides public gain at a personal cost. This story maintains its relevance as a critical examination of race in society.
With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man is both modern and readable.
