Notes from America with Kai Wright Ta-Nehisi Coates on James Baldwin's Words
Sep 21, 2024
Ta-Nehisi Coates, a celebrated essayist and novelist known for his explorations of race and identity, delves into the profound influence of James Baldwin on his work. He highlights Baldwin's essay "On Being 'White'... And Other Lies," discussing its resonance with contemporary discussions on race. Coates emphasizes the power of personal narrative against systemic violence and the importance of addressing historical injustices. He also reflects on Baldwin's enduring legacy and how his writing continues to shape modern conversations about identity.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Baldwin's Influence
- Ta-Nehisi Coates chose a quote from James Baldwin's "On Being 'White'...And Other Lies."
- It discusses the social construction of race and its destructive power, a key theme in Coates's "Between the World and Me."
First Encounter with Baldwin
- Coates first encountered Baldwin's work in college, reading "Everybody's Protest Novel."
- While he didn't fully grasp the politics, the prose's beauty resonated.
Writing Against Oppression
- Coates discusses the challenge of writing against oppressive systems without using their language.
- He emphasizes the importance of finding new words and creating a clarifying and beautiful politic.