James Baldwin

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

Baldwin, mentor to a generation of black artists and writers, is eulogized through essays and interviews as well as speeches delivered at his memorial service. Maya Angelou calls Baldwin her brother, in a time when ``black women had a crying need for brothers.'' Mary McCarthy remembers Baldwin's ``elegance'' and William Styron describes the year that he, grandson of a slave owner, offered the use of his Connecticut studio to Baldwin, grandson of a slave: ``He left a silence that to this day somehow resonates through the house.'' Journalist Mel Watkins introduces a vigorous discussion of Baldwin's craft, evidence of which is amply provided by ``Notes of a Native Son'' and other writings gathered here. The variety of texts is chaotic, but collectively the pieces demonstrate the power and influence of a major literary figure. Troupe, whose interview with his close friend Baldwin is included, won the American Book Award for poetry with Snake-Back Solos. Photos not seen by PW. (Apr.)