20th Century African-American writer gets new life with extensive biography
The first complete biography of award-winning poet, writer, and cultural influencer Margaret Walker gives nuance and depth to the life of a fixture in 20th-century American culture.
From her renowned poem “For My People” to her critically acclaimed novel “Jubilee,” countless essays, a biography of Richard Wright, and a lawsuit against Alex Haley for plagiarism, Walker was determined in her claim to be “black, female and free.”
Maryemma Graham, University Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Kansas and author of “The House Where My Soul Lives,” joined WABE’s “All Things Considered” ahead of her appearance at the Auburn Avenue Research Library to host a book signing and talk with fellow author Tayari Jones.
She said “The House Where My Soul Lives” is a recovery and celebration of Margaret Walker that honors her achievements and activism long after her death in 1998.
Founded by Walker in 1968, the Institute for the Study of the History, Life, and Culture of Black People has since been renamed the Margaret Walker Center at Jackson State University, which honors her legacy through its archival collections, exhibits, and programs.
Christopher Alston contributed to this report.
Top Stories
