Phillis Wheatley - Black JOY in the 18th Century

This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Phillis Wheatley, the first published African American poet. It explores her impact on Black literature, the complexities of her poetry, and the misconceptions surrounding Black literacy and slavery. The discussion highlights Wheatley's humanity, creativity, and the joy found in her relationships and writings, emphasizing that Black expression has always existed despite societal constraints. The episode concludes with a reflection on Wheatley's exceptionalism and the importance of joy in her life and work. CREDITS Tara Bynum -  Associate Professor of English and African American Studies at the University of Iowa. Cassander Smith - Professor of English at the University of Alabama / Associate Dean for Academic Affairs for the Honors College also at Alabama Don Holmes - Assistant Professor of English at the University of Pittsburgh Cornelius Eady - Poet, Playwright, Songwriter, Co-Founder of Cave Canem, and the endowed chair at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville  Brigitte Fielder - Associate Professor at the University of Wisconsin Madison in the College of Letters and Science READ  Reading Pleasures - Everyday Black Living in Early America, By Tara A. Bynum Race and Respectability in an Early Black Atlantic, By Cassander L. Smith CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Phillis Wheatley06:00 The Complexity of Wheatley's Poetry10:55 Wheatley's Humanity and Early Life17:35 Misconceptions About Black Literacy23:46 Black Joy and Wheatley's Writings35:59 Wheatley's Exceptionalism and Tenacity TEAM BLK LIT Jason Torres: @JNTNY Jabari Davis @JabariADavis Jacquees Thomas @_ThatsPeace  Join the Writers Collective BLKWritersRoom.com Sign up for News and Great Gifts for Book Lovers AbakeBooks.com  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.