Perspective

Dr. Frantz Fanon brings an excellent perspective to the writing of this book—that of the psychiatrist who has tried to relieve the mental suffering of black Algerians affected by French colonialism. His perspective as a black man and as a physician gives him instant credibility to address these issues; his lucidity of thought and grace of expression allow him to present them in instructive, compelling prose.

The author maintains an almost clinical objectivity as he describes the colonialist system, the resentment of the natives, how that resentment affects their lives as well as the lives of the colonialists, and the various manifestations of human behavior that become inevitable once the rebels decide to take action for their own independence. It is fascinating to observe how this psychiatrist describes the dynamics of personalities and groups of people as the process of change begins. Fanon is adept at...