In 1979, a decade after Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, James Baldwin, a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, provided a unique perspective on the struggle for equality. Baldwin, dubbed “the poet of the revolution” by Malcolm X and admired by King for his insights into the challenges faced by African Americans in a diverse society, felt compelled to challenge the prevailing narrative of triumph surrounding civil rights. He reimagined the movement as a “slave insurrection,” showcasing its complexities and the lessons it offered. This reevaluation and Baldwin’s resilience in the face of disappointments are central themes in Eddie S. Glaude Jr.’s recent book, Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own.
Glaude highlights the importance of delving into all aspects of Baldwin’s work, not just focusing on his civil rights activism, as many contemporary readers tend to do. By exploring Baldwin’s later writings, Glaude argues that we can glean valuable wisdom and insight, particularly given the current political climate characterized by cyclical patterns of progress and regression in the pursuit of racial equality. “Begin Again” serves as a roadmap for navigating these challenges by drawing on Baldwin’s reflections on racism and American society.
Glaude’s ability to distill complex ideas into digestible phrases is evident in his discussion of concepts like the “value gap” and “the lie.” He underscores the inherent racial biases that underpin societal inequities and challenges readers to confront these falsehoods that perpetuate systemic injustices. Moreover, by examining Baldwin’s scrutiny of the myth of Black inferiority and America’s supposed moral righteousness, Glaude sheds light on ongoing societal issues that demand attention.
While Glaude effectively unpacks Baldwin’s evolving thoughts and contributions beyond the civil rights era, some critics argue that the book overlooks key aspects of Baldwin’s legacy, such as his literary works and his critiques of capitalism, imperialism, and representations of queer identities. These elements were central to Baldwin’s comprehensive analysis of American racism, yet they receive minimal attention in “Begin Again.”
Despite these omissions, Glaude’s “strange book” format, blending criticism, biography, and personal reflection, offers a unique lens through which readers can engage with Baldwin’s profound insights. Each chapter presents a distinct lesson drawn from Baldwin’s life and writings, encouraging readers to confront uncomfortable truths about America’s past and present. By grappling with history and dismantling idealized narratives of white America, Glaude advocates for a more honest reckoning with the nation’s legacy of racial injustice.
In essence, “Begin Again” invites readers to think critically alongside Baldwin, challenging prevailing beliefs and prompting a deeper understanding of the persistent issues that continue to shape American society.
