A Renaissance in Harlem: Lost Essays of the WPA, by Ralph Ellison, Dorothy West, and Other Voices of a Generation

by Lionel C. Bascom

Arguing that the Harlem Renaissance actually lasted much longer than previously portrayed, the author collects more than fifty pieces written for the WPA Writer's Project capturing the voices of war veterans, Pullman porters, prostitutes, preachers, and the first American to plant a flag on the North Pole. Reprint. 25,000 first printing.

Genres: Essays, Nonfiction, American History

320 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 1999

Reviews

[Rick Rapp · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating collection of essays written about Harlem by WPA writers, this book contains many jewels and insights into a noteworthy period in African-American history. Some essays are humorous, some informative, and some disturbing. All are worthy of our attention. One of the many interesting features of this collection is the presence of the writer "Vivian Morris." What makes her presence so intriguing is that there is no trace of this person anywhere in any historical records, leading to the assumption that someone was using a pseudonym while recording the incidents of daily life in Harlem during the 1930s. Other writers are far more familiar. The fact that these essays were "lost" for decades is another reason to celebrate the fact that they resurfaced and provide firsthand knowledge into this remarkable milieu.

[Trudy Ferrer · Rating 5 out of 5]

West = Obligatory read. Her discounted milieu is what makes her such a phenomenal writer, imo. She is humble and gracious; Two attributes you hardly see paired.

[Jbondandrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book. The individual stories were touching and heartfelt. Very worthwhile reading.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I chose this book because I was looking for information about Father Divine. I found raw, emotional stories about life. Real life for so many.