James Baldwin Analysis

Despite discrimination, segregation, and social exile, James Baldwin was able to prevail as an African American writer during a time of prejudice and hate. James Baldwin was a very famous American author who was born in New York City on August 2, 1924 and later died in Paris on December 1st, 1987 . Although known as an important author within the USA, Baldwin spent the majority of his time in other countries including Paris, Switzerland, and Istanbul . Even though he lived abroad, the main topic of his writing often centered on the experience of being black in 20th century America. With application of his experiences throughout the world, Baldwin was able to expand on his statements regarding the treatment of African people. “Stranger in

While within this small Switzerland village, Baldwin develops a deeper understanding of racism against Africans and where it originated from. The essay states, “Go back a few centuries and they are in their full glory- but I am in Africa, watching the conquerors arrive” . This suggests that, in a broader sense, the issue of racism is present throughout the world because of outdated mindsets. Baldwin also blames history in saying that it is the “nightmare from which no one can awaken” . This perception of an entrapment within outdated mindsets allows the reader to understand the never-ending unfairness the black population faces throughout the world. This approach is very successful in viewing the more broad condition and therefore being able to criticize the entire situation. “People are trapped in history just as history is trapped within them” and there is therefore no way to escape. Baldwin goes as far as to suggest that the USA’s harsh views and horrific past paved the way for racial wars slurs that are still hurtful to this day. Baldwin effectively conveys this opinion by depicting how Americans looked down upon black men, and created the word ‘nigger’ because they failed to realize that blacks have rights as well. Whether it is due to deliberate hate or an ignorance of African history, this racism is seen throughout the world in not only a dominant country like America, but also a small isolated village within Europe. Because of this, Baldwin suggests that black and white people alike will never be the same as they once were, and therefore the world has been forever changed. A powerful message like this is relatable to the entire world as Baldwin focuses the topic to be broader and more philosophical in point of view. This shift in overall point of view is a successful approach