One of the most important authors writing about race in America in the 1950s and ’60s, Baldwin dealt with the intersection of masculinity, sex, race, and class in ways that had not been popularized prior to his work. While there’s been a lot written about James Baldwin, many interesting details of his life and career remain unknown by the general public. Here are five interesting facts you might not know about one of the most powerful and controversial authors of the 20th century. James Baldwin led an interesting, active, and creative life that we, as readers, are lucky to have the opportunity to experience. In the year of what would have been his 98th birthday, thank you, Mr. Baldwin, for sharing your literary brilliance with the world. Just how extensive is that? Compare it to fellow Black author Richard Wright’s 276 pages, fellow queer author Truman Capote’s 110 pages, or the nine pages they amassed on Henry Miller, and you can see that it was quite extensive indeed. He took on many different jobs in an effort to care for his family, including becoming a youth minister. It was only when his father* died that Baldwin felt he could pursue a career in writing. Tubbs, Anna Malaika (2021). The Three Mothers: How the Mothers of Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin Shaped a Nation (1st ebook ed.). New York, NY: Flatiron Books. ISBN 978-1-250-75612-1. As Baldwin said in a 1984 Paris Review interview, “James Baldwin, The Art of Fiction No. 78” : Upon the death of the elder Baldwin, James took the leap and dedicated his life to writing.
- James Baldwin did not know his biological father. Despite a difficult relationship with his stepfather, he referred to him as “father” throughout his life. I have followed his example throughout this article. Baldwin did not start writing until after the day was over and would then write until three or four in the morning. When Baldwin decided he wanted to meet the author of Native Son, he did what any sensible person would do — he showed up at Wright’s home and knocked on the door. I don’t recommend you do this for your favorite author, but it worked out for Baldwin, whose career was certainly helped by the generosity and connections available from Wright.
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