Write a letter to James Baldwin telling him what you think of the power of his writing.
Dear Mr Balwin,
I write to you today to commend you for your profound role in the fight for racial equality and advocacy in the 1960’s civil rights movement. I have recently been introduced to your dynamic literary works in which you address the fierce realities of cultural life in a racist society. Your eloquent writings and influential speeches have no doubt played a significant role in eliminating racial hatred and shaping America as we see today. There is power, conviction and logic in your writing, which portrays a sense of realism, suffering and describes the discriminations experienced by the African American communities.
In your speech Pin Drop at Cambridge, you stated, “an attack on integrity is a crime”. Through the power of your words, you fought for the human rights and recognition of African Americans and have been a vital driving force behind social change and progress. You are direct and courageous in your ability to vividly confront the truth, to challenge and shift assumptions and combat ignorance. Your writing and depth of knowledge and understanding of the more complex issues which stem from historical and societal contexts are reflected in your writing.
I was taken aback when I read Going to Meet the Man, which portrays the horrors of lynching, inhumane treatment and the extent of suffering which human beings are capable of inflicting on one another. Acutely, you capture the fear, behaviours, morality and social mindsets which enabled such appalling treatment of American’s. Without the existence of such confronting texts, it would be difficult to understand such realities of a period which I have not. As much as it ached my heart to read of such brutality, hatred and violence, through your writing and the power of your words you articulate the severity of suffering and essence which was required to eliminate racism and initiate progress.
As we continue to discuss your work today, your words will continue to educate, inspire and shape the views of present and future generations.
Work Cited
A REFLECTIVE JOURNEY IN ART, LITERATURE AND EDUCATION 
Hi Nancy! I really enjoyed this blog entry. To me, this seemed like a true professional and well written letter. I really enjoyed how you incorporated more than one of Baldwins texts to support the way in which he widely demonstrates the severity of racism and discrimination. I can see through this letter how much his works have impacted your understanding of these issues and the power of Baldwins writings; I also feel the same way! I particularly like how you wrote “There is power, conviction and logic in your writing, which portrays a sense of realism, suffering and describes the discriminations experienced by the African American communities”. This blog truly encapsulates the sense of logic and realism through your choice of wording in which is also seen in baldwins works. I think perhaps by incorporating some textual evidence from the writings you have referenced could strengthen you blog even more so! Other than that, I really enjoyed this, keep up the good work!
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Dear Nancy,
Firstly, I would like to say well done!
Personally, I find that one of the most difficult things to do as a writer is to actually sit down and write a thank you to my heroes for how they have shaped my perspective for the better. Teach me your secrets!
You have addressed Mr Baldwin beautifully. You clearly acknowledge his ‘dynamic’ approach to bringing racist culture in America to the surface, whilst including your own reflections about specific works of his and its impact on you personally, and as a writer.
I have no critiques, your language is beautifully crafted, your points are succinct and you have left nothing unsaid about the masterful works of Mr James Baldwin.
Thank you for sharing this with us,
Elora x
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Much better Nancy. This is carefully written and with passion. Good work.
MG
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