Jimmy's Blues: Reading James Baldwin Now

This seminar explores the life and works of James Baldwin. Essayist, novelist, activist,
playwright, and orator, Baldwin is recognized today as one of the leading voices of the
American twentieth century. “I’m a witness,” Baldwin insisted, “That’s my responsibility.
I write it all down.” Guided by Black critical theory and sound studies, this course
examines Baldwin’s reflections on national and racial identity, love, memory, and craft
through the lens of sound. Texts include Baldwin's essays, short fiction, interviews,
debates, documentary films, and musical influences. Our aim is to listen to Baldwin and,
in listening, analyze what he bore witness to, how he understood the role of the writer,
and what his insights have to teach us today.