PDF FILE: The New Abolition

a Collection of Poems inspired by works of Modern Black American Writers

*recipient of the 2021 Sidney Cox Memorial Prize

 

Preface

A poem often reflects the intent of its creator, though it garners meaning through the lens of its proprietor. As a white female writer, I lack the perspective of many of the African American writers who have inspired this manuscript. Amidst a global pandemic, these poems were written in the isolation of my home and reflect the works of literary greats such as DuBois, Brooks, and Girmay, and their impressions on me during this unique time. This manuscript reflects my reception of these gems amidst our country’s current climate – just having completed a taxing and arduous election cycle, amidst a global pandemic, and dealing with concerns of increasing black police violence. Reading the works of influential modern black American thinkers, writers, activists, and artists during this unprecedented time encouraged me to reflect, to meditate, and to listen to the voices of our forebears, who fought hard battles to get us where we are today, and helped me realize that these times may not be as unprecedented as we may think.

 

Most of all, these readings struck me deeply, allowed me to feel and to extend empathy for all beings, and as a being myself, I write. This is, in essence the beauty of the human experience, exemplified in the black literary tradition.

 

These poems cannot serve as substitutes for the original works, which is why I have referenced the texts that inspired each poem. I encourage you find these pieces and read, watch, or listen to them for yourself (or perhaps, for another time) and feel moved as I did when I once read them. I’d like to think that this manuscript, if nothing else, functions as a conduit between you and the pieces that configure a small sampling of pieces that make up the rich tradition of modern Black American literature.

 

Julia Robitaille

November 2020