Topic for Discussion 1

What does Baldwin think is the proper role of the artist? Do you agree? Why or why not?

Topic for Discussion 2

Baldwin makes the claim that every African American must struggle against the impulse to express his anger toward racism in violent acts. Do you think this is a fair generalization?

Topic for Discussion 3

Baldwin expresses the view that even when we think we have moved beyond a certain point in our history, our past remains with us and marks our culture. Thus, though the United States has abolished slavery, we do not live in a post-race society. African Americans may no longer be slaves, but the societal effects of slavery remain with us in the poverty and discrimination that so many African Americans face. Baldwin was writing before the achievements of the Civil Rights movement. Do you think the Civil Rights movement managed...