Raw Wounds

by Kondwani Fidel

Beautiful Kondwani Fidel has once again composed a masterpiece of stories and memories that forms lessons to all young Suns growing up in the neighborhood. This piece, this lesson, is ever so necessary in an era where, we, who come from urban communities, are still fighting structural racism, police brutality, economic genocide while simultaneously fighting the ways in which we self-destruct, destroy one another, and create chaos in our communities. It is a critique of the system of our oppression and a critique of the dysfunctions in our own families, relationships, and communities. It is brilliant that a young mind such as Fidel's has been blessed with the conscious and creative spirit that allows him to compose a lesson from a perspective and in a way that no other could. Raw Wounds is sung in pitches and frequencies that invokes the emotion. It is a bittersweet song." -Dr. Zoe Spencer, Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Virginia State University

Genres: Poetry, Race, Nonfiction

102 pages, Paperback

Published January 18, 2017

Reviews

[Cija Jefferson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Raw Wounds is a meditation on black boy survival, family, and race in America. Fidel's writing, like his book title, is raw. His words are poignant and laser-like in their precision. His voice is sure and clear. He allows the reader to glimpse the world he comes from and reminds us he's not the only one battling to survive. Raw Wounds is a necessary read for those who believe that black folks, especially those in urban centers like Baltimore, are exaggerating about what it takes to survive and thrive in America.

I especially enjoyed the arrangement of the book because it feels experimental in that it's not just one narrative flow, rather it's a mix of storytelling, essay, and poetry. Fidel snatches his heart out of his chest and holds it up for us to see. If we can see him than we can see us. F.U.B.U.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

"These policies and ideas created a system that unconsciously and automatically nourishes a racist psychology and behaviorism in not only white men, but many women and men of all different backgrounds."

Kondwani Fidel brings an interesting insight into the depth and complexity of the burden thrust upon black people in America, particularly in Baltimore. The dialogue and essay-like portions aren't written flawlessly (although the poetry is), but his work is real, raw, and accessible. I would recommend this book to anyone. If you are not convinced, check out some of his work on Youtube, particularly "#TheBaltimoreBulletTrain".

[Martha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Raw Wounds is an exceptional memoir. Despite some painful, hopeless-seeming circumstances, Kondwani Fidel's authorial command and presence leaves the reader feeling hopeful for the author and his city.