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Paul Laurence Dunbar

    Paul Laurence Dunbar was a seminal American poet, adept at employing both standard English and dialect to craft his work. His writing is characterized by vivid language, a conversational tone, and brilliant rhetorical structure, often exploring the lives and experiences of African Americans. Dunbar's influence extended beyond poetry; he also authored short stories, novels, and plays, with his pieces appearing in prominent contemporary publications. His ability to blend literary artistry with authentic expressions of often-overlooked voices cements his significance in American literature.

    Lyrics of Sunshine and Shadow
    A Prayer: Choral Octavo
    The Sport of the Gods
    Selected Poems
    The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar
    The Selected Literary Letters of Paul Laurence Dunbar
    • 2024

      The Complete Poems

      • 478 pages
      • 17 hours of reading

      Exploring themes of hope and redemption, this book delves into the power of prayer as a means of connection with the divine. Through heartfelt narratives and reflections, it invites readers to consider the impact of faith on their lives and the transformative nature of sincere supplication. The text encourages a deeper understanding of spirituality and the personal journeys that accompany it, making it a compelling read for those seeking solace and inspiration.

      The Complete Poems
    • 2024

      The collection features festive holiday-themed poems by Paul Laurence Dunbar, who made significant contributions as an African American poet before his untimely death at thirty-three. Among the included works are "Chrismus is A-Comin'," "Soliloquy of a Turkey," and "Christmas in the Heart," showcasing Dunbar's unique voice and perspective on Christmas. This posthumously published anthology highlights his literary legacy and captures the spirit of the holiday season through his poignant and engaging verses.

      Speakin O' Christmas and Other Christmas Poems
    • 2022

      A Prayer: Choral Octavo

      • 999 pages
      • 35 hours of reading

      British composer Ken Burton uses the writing of Paul Laurence Dunbar (1872-1906), the black American son of emancipated slaves, in his 3-minute work A Prayer. The text of the three verses is bitter-sweet, filled with hope and sadness, and the music combines with this to make a rhythmically simple reflective evening hymn. Burton draws on Spiritual, Gospel and Blues to write a piece for SATB with divisi that will be a popular piece both to sing and to hear. New commission from The Jason Max Ferdinand Singers and premiered in their inaugural concert as part of the online LIVE from London - Spring Festival 2021 Follows Descend to Earth, VOCES8's own commission of Ken Burton in the LIVE from London - Christmas Festival 2020 UK-based Ken Burton is known for his work on UK television programmes, particularly in BBC TV's Songs of Praise Burton was choirmaster for the multi Oscar winning and Grammy winning Marvel film Black Panther

      A Prayer: Choral Octavo
    • 2022

      The Selected Short Stories of Paul Laurence Dunbar

      With Illustrations by E. W. Kemble

      • 508 pages
      • 18 hours of reading

      This collection showcases the powerful short stories of Paul Laurence Dunbar, a pioneering African-American writer. It features three significant works: "Folks from Dixie," the first short story collection by an African American, "The Strength of Gideon," and "The Heart of Happy Hollow," which delves into post-Civil War African American life. Dunbar's use of African-American Vernacular and conventional English highlights the richness of his storytelling. The volume also includes a new biography and original illustrations, enhancing the reader's experience of his impactful narratives.

      The Selected Short Stories of Paul Laurence Dunbar
    • 2021
    • 2021

      Lyrics of Sunshine and Shadow

      • 110 pages
      • 4 hours of reading

      Exploring themes of faith, perseverance, and the African American experience, this collection of poems reflects Paul Laurence Dunbar's struggles with tuberculosis, alcoholism, and depression. His work captures a meditative, bittersweet tone, particularly in "The Place Where the Rainbow Ends," where he contemplates hope and inner peace over material wealth. As he nears death, Dunbar's poignant verses express a longing for connection and fulfillment, leaving readers with a resonant question about the unknown, while maintaining a sense of hope for peace and reunion.

      Lyrics of Sunshine and Shadow
    • 2021

      The Uncalled; A Novel

      • 124 pages
      • 5 hours of reading

      Preserving a significant classical work, this modern edition of the novel has been meticulously reformatted and retyped for clarity and readability. Alpha Editions aims to ensure that this important piece of literature remains accessible to both current and future generations, emphasizing the value of its historical context. The effort to republish it in a fresh format highlights its enduring relevance in human history.

      The Uncalled; A Novel
    • 2021

      Lyrics of a Lowly Life

      • 170 pages
      • 6 hours of reading

      Focusing on the African American experience, this collection showcases Paul Laurence Dunbar's powerful vision of faith and perseverance. Combining earlier works, it highlights the poet's commitment to his craft, likening poetry to labor in "The Poet and His Song." Dunbar emphasizes the dual role of the poet as a worker and a dreamer. His elegy "Frederick Douglass" reflects on pride and defiance in a society shaped by slavery, illustrating the profound impact of Douglass's legacy. Each poem grounds Dunbar's identity and explores the poet's societal role.

      Lyrics of a Lowly Life
    • 2021

      The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar is a comprehensive selection of the iconic writer's beloved poetry that features his unique rhythm and famous dialect. His work is a beautiful and critical examination of the human spirit. Paul Laurence Dunbar produced an impressive volume of work during his short lifetime. Prior to his passing, at age 33, he published multiple collections of poetry including Majors and Minors in 1895 and Lyrics of Lowly Life in 1896. Dunbar uses his poetry to address multiple themes such as love, loss, family, marriage and work. His signature prose and melodic turn of phrase permeates the heart and mind, leaving an indelible mark. The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar is required reading for poetry scholars. It helps exemplify Dunbar's influence in America and abroad. He was a prolific artist who set a precedent for many twentieth century poets, including Dr. Maya Angelou. With an eye-catching new cover, and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar is both modern and readable.

      The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar
    • 2003

      This comprehensive collection features the finest works of one of the most-admired and widely-read African-American poets. Both dialect and standard-English poems appear here, including "Ode to Ethiopia," "Worn Out," "Not They Who Soar," "When Malindy Sings," "We Wear the Mask, "Dinah Kneading Dough," "The Haunted Oak," "Black Samson of Brandywine," and many more.

      Selected Poems