When was the last time you tried something new?
In response to a call-out by Writing Our Legacy, I wrote my first-ever book review. It felt good to take on a new creative challenge, even with the apprehension and impostor syndrome that tagged along.
Having started a new job in February (9-5, five days a week on-site), my creative rhythm, practice and opportunity for creative expression and community have suffered. It is a challenge and tension I am struggling to navigate.
For a Creative, expressing their creativity is as necessary as the body’s need for oxygen. Likewise, fuelling your creativity is important.
It’s why I’ve forced myself to push past my tiredness on Tuesday nights to attend the virtual writing group I’mm a member of, T.A.G Writers,. (T.A.G stands for The Accountability Group)
It is why I’ve attended a couple of poetry and art events after work, committing to those where friends were headlining. Such as ‘For Sudan – A Night of Sudanese Excellence & Joy!’ where my poetry sis, Ayah (@humanthepoet), captivated the whole of Grand Junction, W2 with her words (click to watch an Ode to the Women of Sudan | Woman of the Earth).
It is also why I jumped at the opportunity to write this review. My enthusiasm was also fuelled by the book’s subject matter, James Baldwin, the icon, trailblazer and thought leader, and James Baldwin the man. And keeping it real, getting the book for free was also a plus!
A “Love Letter” to Baldwin
Published to coincide with the centenary of his birth, Encounters with Baldwin: Celebrating 100 Years (available from Aurora Metro) is an eclectic mix of short essays, stories, poetry, letters, and more, interspersed with intentionally placed James Baldwin quotes.
“The place in which I’ll fit will not exist until I make it.”
James Baldwin
The book is a combination of first-person accounts and those with varying degrees of separation, yet up close and personal, written by authors from various disciplines, backgrounds and countries, sharing their reflections on and responses to Baldwin: his writings, life and work.
It has been described as a “love letter” to Baldwin. I think it’s fair to say that the contributors are responding to the ‘love letters’ Baldwin left for them, us and those coming after us.
If you have never encountered James Baldwin, once you read the book, I believe you’ll feel as if you have. To see why I say this, read the review. When you have, let me know what you think
What did I gain from trying something new?
- I got to read a thought-provoking book and experienced many “mmm” moments during my work commutes.
- I got to flex my writing skills and learn new ones, including picking up editing know-how. I found reading the editor’s touches enlightening and enjoyable. I will endeavour to apply what I’ve learnt to my writing.
Thanks again for the stunning review!
I’ve reached out to the publisher & shared the review and they love it. One of the co-editors said they were seriously impressed! so well done.
Amy Glass – CEO Writing Our Legacy CIC
- I received positive feedback, which affirmed the idea that I can add a new element to my writing practice and contributions, one that I intend to develop further.
One of my primary love languages is words of affirmation, so the feedback touched my intellect and my soul.
Parting Words
We live in an age in which silence is not only criminal but suicidal. – James Baldwin
Words have power. Evidenced by the words of James Baldwin, continuing to resound and resonate in our present times. Our words also have power. How will we use our words to impact the spaces and times we’re in?
- Read the review here.
- Get a copy of Encounters with Baldwin: Celebrating 100 Years here.
- Learn more about Writing Our Legacy via their website to learn more.
- James at 100 – A short clip looking back at his life: “Sunday Morning” contributor Kelefa Sanneh looks back at the author of such noted works as “Notes of a Native Son,” “The Fire Next Time,” and “Giovanni’s Room.”