A Poets Rage

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

One of my favorite poems is "Claude McKay's "If We Must Die."

Passionate and defiant, McKay's sonnet illustrates the harsh consequences that racism presents not to all Americans. Inspired by images of race riots that he saw in various African-American newspapers, McKay wrote "If We Must Die" to show the desires of African-Americans to overcome rage and alienation and assimilate into American society.

Although inspired by the way that African-Americans were treated during these various riots, McKay never once mentions race in the poem. Instead, he wrote that he wanted the words of "If We Must Die" to speak to any group who had been "abused, outraged and murdered, whether they are minorities or nations, black or brown or yellow or white."

National Poetry Month is well underway. Throughout the rest of the month, I'll be sharing some of my favorite African-American poets with readers. In the meantime, share with me: who are your favorite African-American poets?

Suggested Reading

The Red Summer of 1919

"If We Must Die"