The Transformative Power of African American Literature: Past, Present, and Future
- Mac Ferrone
- Feb 19
- 2 min read
Through our efforts to organize and distribute donations to families and educators throughout Maryland, The Maryland Book Bank is not a stranger to older books–those written in the 20th century or earlier–and historical books documenting the past. Such findings are exciting, as they allow us to introduce new readers to high-quality literary works, and people who made a splash and still hold relevance today.
Likewise, the works of Black authors are no strangers to the Book Bank. However, the journey of how these novels have changed from their earlier days is a story in itself.
The development of Black literature originates from the oral traditions of Africans brought to America through the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans used such traditions–such as specific stories and songs–to “preserve their cultural heritage and communicate their experiences” through oppression. As African Americans gained literacy during and after American slavery ended, authors like Frederick Douglass and Philip Wheatley wrote of their experiences and ideals–serving as cornerstones of a burgeoning literary movement (The Role of Black Literature).
Fast-forward to the 1920s, and the Harlem Renaissance is in full swing. It is “Considered a golden age in African American culture” regarding music, theatrics, and literary achievement (Onion). Many famous African American authors, such as Langston Hughes and Claude McKay, made a name for themselves during the period. Their works, and the works of many others, “brought African American culture into the mainstream and challenged racial stereotypes,” encouraging future writers to delve even deeper into personal “identity and heritage through literature” (The History of Black Literature).
As the rights of African Americans were put into major contention during the “civil rights and Black Power movements” of the 1950s and 1960s, writers like Nikki Giovanni and Amiri Baraka created works that promoted Black pride and “celebrated blackness.” Similarly, the 1990s saw the rise of Afrofuturism–which Ryan Coogler, director of films such as Black Panther, describes as “a way to bridge the cultural aspects of the ancient African traditions with the potential of the future” (Robinson). Besides movies, there has been an influx of Black writings with a technological and science-fiction focus. Notable authors in this field include Octavia E. Butler and Colson Whitehead (Penguin Random House). Ultimately, It allowed black writers to “address complex issues in creative ways”–even more so than before (The History of Black Literature).
(For more information and specificity on this topic, we encourage personal research into the History of Black Literature!)
Ultimately, Black Literature has changed and grown in response to the change and growth seen in the wider world. However, regardless of the form, style, structure, or subject matter, Black Literature was, is, and will forever be necessary for developing empathy and promoting proper cultural representation. Likewise, we at the Book Bank look forward to seeing how Black writers continue to redefine literature and change lives across Maryland and the globe.
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