James Baldwin: The Man and His Work

by Rafael Walker (Narrator), The Great Courses

Artist. Public intellectual. Political activist. James Baldwin was all of these and more. Raised in the slums of Depression-era Harlem in New York City, Baldwin would become an author and activist of international renown—one whose legacy has continued long beyond his death in 1987. Who was James Baldwin? How did he become the master of multiple literary genres and a champion for some of the era’s most notable political and social causes? And how is his influence still being felt today?

Explore these questions and more in the six lectures of James Baldwin: The Man and His Work, taught by Rafael Walker of Baruch College, City University of New York. As you explore Baldwin’s life, from his childhood to his international writing career to his work as a public voice for the marginalized all over the world, you will understand how he became one of the 20th century’s most influential Black writers and intellectuals. You’ll also examine many of his most famous works, including the novels Go Tell It on The Mountain and Giovanni’s Room, his powerful essays, and his short stories “Sonny’s Blues” and “Going to Meet the Man.” As you experience these complex and deeply personal pieces of writing, you’ll see how Baldwin’s life and work were inseparable, with his brilliant works drawing from his experiences both in America and abroad.

Near the end of his life, Baldwin’s influence seemed to be waning. But as you’ll see, the startling clarity and power of his words were never truly forgotten. Today his writings serve as a model for a new generation of authors, challenging readers to reflect on the injustices around them and inspiring activists in the Black Lives Matter, LGBTQ, and other social movements. With his legacy reignited for the 21st century, you now have the chance to discover why James Baldwin’s impact as both a writer and a vocal force for change is still profoundly relevant.

©2025 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2025 Audible Originals, LLC.

Genres: Nonfiction, Writing, Biography

Audible Audio

Published February 6, 2025

Reviews

[Marlo G · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve gained a better appreciation and understanding of James Baldwin and his work.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

A concise lesson on the life and work of James Balwin, I'm left feeling like I was in a class (and it's been a long time since I've been in school). I've only ever heard his name in passing and don't remember reading any of his works, but this was a nice short insight into some of them and the reflection they had mirroring his life and that of being gay and black. I haven't really done a lot of non-fiction but, given the times we're in now, I think it's important to try and remember who we had to build the world we live in now.

[Mathew · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently read my first Baldwin novel so having this lecture series was a wonderful way to cement it into my mind, and then introduce the greater body of work that I'm not yet acquainted with. This series I think has done a superb job of introducing his work, and showing a bit of what made the man so remarkable. I know that I've been inspired to read and learn more. I never expected to find so many touchstones or parallels with my own life, which I would hope is due to the skills of Baldwin himself, and then accentuated by a masterly presentation by Rafael Walker. If you're a long time fan, a new comer like myself, or if this seems totally out of your wheelhouse, I would suggest this glimpse into the life and work of a talented and compassionate and beautiful human being.

[Denzel Washington · Rating 3 out of 5]

In my opinion, this work on Baldwin isn’t the best. Although it’s short, the stories were slow and dove deeper into his romantic relationships than his work and impact. Perhaps I was simply expecting something different.

[Elaine Jackson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I learned so much about the man from this selection. I learned so much about the books he wrote and the true significance of them.

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like, admire or in any way appreciate James Baldwin and his contributions to American discourse, give this a listen.

[Jassie Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so wonderful!

[Letitia · Rating 5 out of 5]

James Baldwin has been my favorite author since I was 16 years old and read Go Tell It on the Mountain. I love how Rafael Walker has studied James Baldwin's work and brings us into the man's life. can't go wrong with this one.

[Stephanie Borges Folarin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent. Now I have to go back and read everything Baldwin :-)