"Countee Cullen explores the emotional consequences of race, religion, and sexuality in Jazz Age America in his moving, eloquent, and poignant poems"--
Countee Cullen Book order
Countee Cullen emerged as a leading voice of the Harlem Renaissance, crafting poetry that echoed the lyrical tradition of Keats and Shelley. While his upbringing in a predominantly white community shaped a perspective distinct from some of his contemporaries, his work is marked by imaginative lyricism and a masterful command of form. Cullen resisted the experimental techniques of Modernism, choosing instead to refine classical poetic structures. His poems explore complex themes with a unique sensibility, solidifying his significant place in American literature.
- 2023
- 2021
Exploring themes of identity and racial violence, this collection of poems reflects Countee Cullen's personal journey as a Black man in America during the Harlem Renaissance. Through poignant verses, he grapples with his heritage and the impact of systemic racism, as seen in works like "Heritage" and "Incident." Cullen's poetry serves as both a means of survival and self-expression, capturing the struggles and triumphs of his generation. This large print edition reintroduces Cullen's powerful voice to contemporary audiences, highlighting his significant contribution to American literature.