 (“MX100 Nurturing the Sacred Flames of Freedom and Justice” mixed media painting by Aberjhani ©2025)
Malcolm X (El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz), born May 19, 1925, in Omaha, Nebraska, left the world an exemplary legacy of historic activism, self-determination, and transformative personal growth. As citizens of the globe in 2025 mark 100 years since his birth, his life invites reflection on the values of courage and conviction amid threats of tyranny and persecution. Contemporary American author-poet Aberjhani––himself a native of Savannah, Georgia––has openly credited Malcolm X’s life example with empowering his life and career in critical ways, including through essential lessons on: 1) Speaking truth to power; 2) self-education as liberation; 3) creative resistance; 4) interwoven history; and 5) Global solidarity. 1. SPEAKING TRUTH TO POWER Power comes in many forms: physical, political, economic, spiritual, and social, among other manifestations. How power is utilized by those who possess it in abundance can have life-altering impacts upon the world’s diverse populations. That makes effective communication with such entities, when necessary, crucial. The quote at the beginning of this article was shared by the well-known creative and activist Aberjhani in honor of Malcolm X’s centennial. The statement represents his acknowledgement of how reading the classic Autobiography of Malcolm X as told to Alex Haley, gave him confidence to stand up against injustice, despite fear of persecution. This spirit of courage echoes Malcolm X’s own example. Despite the fact that it often put his life, and that of his beloved family in danger, he relentlessly used every media platform he could to confront racial tyranny and economic exploitation in America. He addressed his appeals as vigorously to those considered oppressed as he did to those identified as oppressors: “Nobody can give you freedom. Nobody can give you equality or justice… If you’re a man, you take it.” This statement from Malcolm X Speaks underscores a conviction very much in line with the Savannah writer’s acknowledgement. By highlighting “validation of my right and ability to speak truth to power,” the editor of The Wisdom of W.E.B. Du Bois and co-author of Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance affirms the great leader’s teaching that one cannot remain silent or inactive when confronted by politically volatile conditions. In the life of both the historic leader and the contemporary creative, speaking up became an act of courage. In 1964, Malcolm X insisted, “Time is on the side of the oppressed today… Truth is on the side of the oppressed today, it’s against the oppressor,” implying that moral truth eventually prevails. His statement aligns closely with Martin Luther King Jr.’s assertion that “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Aberjhani’s noted determination may be viewed as a direct link to both. The concept has become a frequently-cited one among American protesters looking forward to the November 2026 midterm elections. With the new elections comes opportunities, as voters, to either reject or support the POTUS’s cancellation of longstanding public service programs via a succession of executive orders and his DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) initiative. 2. SELF-EDUCATION AS LIBERATION It may be argued that despite the relative briefness of his life, Minister X was a lifelong learner. As recounted in his autobiography, different stages of growth and development saw him evolve from birth as Malcolm Little to: street hustler Detroit Red, a rage-filled prisoner nicknamed Satan in Massachusetts’s Charlestown State Prison, then devout Muslim Malcolm X at the Norfolk Prison Colony, and finally becoming El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz in 1964 during his pilgrimage to Mecca. Much of his celebrated historic status comes from the famous story of how he strove to educate himself while imprisoned in Norfolk. Instead of simply marking off calendar days while awaiting release, he attended the prison’s school, increased his literacy skills by copying words and definitions from a dictionary, and joined a debating society. Those intense studies began his transformation from his assumed identities as Detroit Red and Satan, to that of the emerging leader who would soon make such an indelible imprint upon humanity’s collective conscience. He described this experience of personal evolution as his former ways of thinking sliding “away from me, like snow off a roof. It is as though someone else I knew of had lived by hustling and crime.” The idea that you could grow and become more than what an oppressive society said one could become was not lost on Aberjhani. This is poignantly evident from his poem “Return to Savannah,” in which he describes himself as “a stupid little Hitch Village boy/ feet covered with red dirt/ and blackberry stains,/ snot flowing like panic and river water/… his dreams containing just enough genius/ to save his mystified ass…” The Hitch Village in the above lines refers to a government housing project in Savannah. The value of education was constantly impressed upon him but he developed a fondness for comic books (which he would purchase two-for-a-nickel at a pawn shop) that developed into self-directed reading of different kinds of biographies, novels, and short stories. Recognizing his intellectual potential, a high school guidance counselor enrolled him in the Upward Bound College Prep Program at Savannah State College (now University). The program led to his initial acceptance at a small college in Florida, and later to attend more colleges and universities in the U.S. where he studied journalism, literature, and the American Community. Later in his life, independent studies of world literature and global spiritual traditions led to the experience of a profound dream that gave him his singular name. With the U.S. presidential administration’s pledge in 2025 to dismantle the education system, and the repeal of Diversity Equity and Inclusion programs designed to ensure access to quality schooling for all Americans, Malcolm’s warning that, “Without education, you’re not going anywhere” has begun to take on foreboding tones. Decreasing the means to attain necessary education or training means increasing the likelihood of antagonistic divisiveness and conflicts among different cultural groups. It is the kind of avoidable clash which Aberjhani has often cautioned against on social media posts when using the hashtag #CompassionSavesLives. 3. CREATIVE RESISTANCE: A CASE STUDY Students of Malcolm X's speeches and writings recognize that they were not merely political; they were deeply personal and impressively poetic. His ability to articulate the Black experience with eloquence and urgency inspired generations of artists and activists. As Tamara Payne points out in her introduction to The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X, written with her father Les Payne (1941-2018): “…numerous rappers and activists quoted Malcolm in their lyrics and interviews on radio and television.” Aberjhani can be counted among them as someone who has honored his legacy by using his writings and art (like the digital painting provided for this article) to promote legislative accountability and inspire peaceful corrections of social injustices. One important example is the following excerpt from Greeting Flanney O’Connor at the Back Door of My Mind: …I knew staying permanently in the South was not a viable option because I was too fond of moving forward while the dominant mindset, ruling and otherwise, promoted a perennial parochial comfort zone which many native to the city and of my generation tended to find suffocating. An illustration of this came when, once back in Savannah, I took a job at an east side liquor store where my White supervisor loudly reprimanded me in front of co-workers for reading The Autobiography of Malcolm X during a lunch break. A Black female employee reading romance novels while on the clock and at the register, however, was not a problem. To my way of thinking, our supervisor’s attempt to control what I read on my own time was no less deplorable, or deadly, than the Scientologists’ bid in San Francisco to manipulate my beliefs and actions. To decide if it would be a good idea to join the U.S. Air Force before thoughts of violent retaliation got the better of me, I listed pros and cons in different columns. The pros won.” (Greeting Flannery, pbk p.130)
In this example, the author ultimately chose to join the Air Force––a practical, disciplined path––over violent retaliation. His decision provided him with crucial experience as a military journalist, documentarian, and equal opportunity enforcement officer. The choice mirrors Malcolm X’s decision to build institutions (like the Muslim Mosque, Inc., and the newspaper Muhammad Speaks) rather than resort to undirected rage. In other words, Minister X’s personal growth – from street hustler to enlightened minister – teaches the value of channeling righteous anger into individual empowerment and positive actions. Aberjhani’s listing of pros and cons like a careful strategist reflects a similar praxis exhibited by the minister as he continued maturing and evolving. At least two more major biographies on Malcolm X have been published since Alex Haley gave the world its first groundbreaking narrative on the man who would become El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz. Manning Marable’s Malcolm X: A Life of Reinvention (2011) and Paynes’ The Dead Are Arising: The Life of Malcolm X (2020) both won Pulitzer Prizes for adding rich details and expanded context to the iconic leader’s original autobiography. However, for Aberjhani and others, the original stands as an indispensable historic text due to the minister’s direct participation in its composition and its initial international impact upon publication just months after his assassination. 4. INTERWOVEN HISTORY Based on studies of his country’s past and the historical times through which he was living, Malcolm X concluded that democracy was practiced selectively—providing freedom and opportunity to the privileged but subjugating Black Americans through institutional racism. He courageously argued that officials of the U.S. government, while professing democratic values, operated as an oppressive regime for Black people. This regime was marked by voter suppression, police brutality, and systemic inequality. Unfortunately, the persistence of these conditions outlined in the 1960s became apparent during the 2020s pandemic. Many would argue they remain so at this time as people around the world observe the centennial of Minister X’s birth. In his 2025 Kindle Short publication, Democratic Dilemmas and Divine Inspiration, Aberjhani offers a compelling critique of how the erosion of democratic norms through autocratic and oligarchic methods in modern times threaten the very foundation of American democracy. He does this by contrasting the history of the U.S. Constitution, which some consider “divinely inspired,” with present-day governmental policies and practices threatening to create a “constitutional crisis” with disruptive friction between different branches of the government.
The essay takes a different contextual approach from Malcolm X’s incisive analysis of historically biased political and social systems in the U.S. but at the same time strongly aligns with it. Both perspectives recognize the systematic exclusion of marginalized communities from power and challenge the legitimacy of institutions that fail to uphold justice and equality. Malcolm X’s rhetorical strategy often combined incisive critique with a call to moral and spiritual awakening. He did not solely rely on secular arguments but invoked religious and ethical imperatives to galvanize resistance. Similarly, Democratic Dilemmas and Divine Inspiration draws on spiritual or divine motifs to advocate for transformative justice. By linking faith with activism, the essay mirrors Malcolm X’s own approach, particularly during and after his transformation from a Nation of Islam minister to a broader international human rights advocate. Both recognize that true liberation requires not only political reform but also a profound shift in consciousness—a revolution of personal and cultural values. Ultimately, both the essay and Malcolm X’s teachings present democracy not as a static condition but as an ongoing struggle. They demand a reckoning with injustice and inspire movements aimed at re-imagining a more inclusive and equitable society. Their shared insistence on resistance and avoiding such entrapments as misinformation and disinformation underscores the necessity of confronting undemocratic forces in order to preserve the ideals of justice and freedom for all. 5. GLOBAL SOLIDARITY  (“All-Embracing Radiance of a Purpose-Driven Soul” mixed media painting by Aberjhani ©2025) In his struggles for self-liberation and the liberation of others, Malcolm X braved constant pressures––his wife and daughters were subjected to threats, and his house was firebombed. Yet, until his assassination, he never ceased confronting systemic evil, and refuted charges of advocating any form of Black supremacy. In his own famous words: “I am not a racist. I am against every form of racism and segregation, every form of discrimination. I believe in human beings, and that all human beings should be respected as such, regardless of their color.” In Aberjhani’s assessment, Malcolm X stands as a major intellectual and spiritual influence alongside such towering historic and world figures as: Frederick Douglass, W.E.B Du Bois, Langston Hughes, Albert Camus, James Baldwin, Maya Angelou, Toni Morrison, Nelson Mandela, Nadine Gordimer, Angela Davis, Jalaluddin Rumi, Jean Paul Sartre, and others who have wielded their pens while standing their ground in battles against blatant injustice. Reading in Alex Haley’s text about Minister X’s 1964 pilgrimage to Mecca (where he became El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz) shows how openness to change can deepen one’s humanity. This broad, principled humanism resonates with Aberjhani’s rejection of narrow-minded control (whether by a racist boss or a coercive religion) and his commitment to universal justice.
The author left his hometown’s oppressively caste-privileged environment because he wanted to grow and preferred “moving forward” to living in a static status quo. He has famously stated that Langston Hughes also inspired him in this regard when advising writers to expand their formal educations with as much travel within and outside of America as possible. His emphasis on moving forward into larger circles of understanding –including global empathy– parallels the global outlook which the minister developed. It is fitting that one memoir by the author is titled The American Poet Who Went Home Again, and another called Greeting Flannery O’Connor at the Back Door of My Mind. Their thematic content reaches across cultural lines, just as Minister X eventually sought to more effectively reach beyond racial and national divides. Both men left familiar confines to embrace empirical sources of knowledge, and emerged with broadened purpose. Aberjhani’s narratives on surviving pain, finding anger, and then choosing activism (even if only by conscience) illustrate that arc well. In both stories, personal conviction –once kindled– cannot be suppressed by threats. The result is growth: The future author matured from a timid youth fearful of “losing freedom” for speaking out, into a mature author-poet-artist who prizes honesty as the highest duty. Malcolm X’s journey from frustrated illiteracy to commanding eloquence, and from restrictive racial conditioning to universal humanity, provided a living model of self-transformation through conviction. Underlying Aberjhani’s appreciation for Malcolm X is recognition that standing firm on principles is a form of leadership. As the great leader asserted, “Usually when people are sad, they don’t do anything. They just cry over their condition. But when they get angry, they bring about a change.” CONCLUSION: ADDRESSING CONTEMPORARY CONDITIONSWhat is possibly most important in lessons learned from Malcolm X’s life and legacy during his centennial, and how they have impacted artist-activists like Aberjhani, is the degree to which they may be effectively employed to address the kinds of aggressively autocratic manipulations taking place in different parts of the contemporary world. In its 2025 report on democracy, “25 Years of Autocratization – Democracy Trumped?,” the V-Dem Institute tells us only 29 countries remained “liberal democracies” in 2024, and “nearly 3 out of 4 persons in the world – 72% – now live in autocracies,” meaning they are governed by repressive authoritarian rulers and with severely restricted democratic freedoms. Harsh censorship and violence against dissent are spreading globally. Closer to home, the rise of far-right platforms like Project 2025 indicates an erosion of democratic norms involving: freedom of the press, voting rights, international diplomacy, and rule of law. All of these are among the defining characteristics of a democratic society and their disintegration makes daily life in America more like daily existence in autocracies like North Korea or Russia. In such times, speaking truth courageously, exercising unwavering conviction, and continual self-education are urgently needed by communities everywhere. Minister X’s and Aberjhani’s experiences show how these principles work in practice. The former later emphasized coalition-building (e.g. the Organization of Afro-American Unity) and affirmed his belief all people of conscience have a stake in advocating for justice and against violations of human rights. The latter has often championed community uplift through creative resistance (at times referring to himself as a “literary activist”) using art, empathy, and shared struggle rather than violence. As the world contends with new “waves of Autocratization,” nonviolent conflict resolution provides one of the best means for defending and sustaining the promise of American democracy rather than conceding centuries of progress on so many fronts. (A SIDE NOTE: On May 8, 2025, Robert Francis Prevost of the United States became Pope Leo XIV to replace his universally-admired processor, Pope Francis. As the first American ever to become pope, the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion people worldwide, his election to the papacy places him in a position to potentially, and significantly, influence how long Americans continue to passively endorse autocratic policies and practices implemented by the POTUS.) Ultimately, celebrating Malcolm X’s 100th birthday means more than memorials; it means action. Aberjhani himself has said that honoring the minister requires speaking truth to power and nurturing what King called the “kind of love that organizes.” In individual communities, this might take the form of demanding racial justice, protecting free expression, or simply refusing to accept deceit from authority. It certainly involves education and empathy, as Malcolm insisted: learning full history and caring beyond surface differences. In a global climate where freedoms are under threat, lessons from the life and legacy of Malcolm X comprise a powerful arsenal. By embracing them, communities in America and worldwide can better safeguard dignity and a sustainable quality of life against repressive authoritarian forces. By AI Literary Chat Salon Contributor 2772 |
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“Sociologically, politically, psychologically, spiritually, it was never enough for James Baldwin to categorize himself as one thing or the other: not just black, not just sexual, not just American, nor even just as a world-class literary artist. He embraced the whole of life the way the sun’s gravitational passion embraces everything from the smallest wandering comet to the largest looming planet.” (Aberjhani)
In this article, we explore the ways in which individuals and organizations can advantageously frame presentations or programs around the above text, referencing such factors as the significance of the Google front-page doodle honoring James Baldwin launched on February 1, 2024. Additionally, contemporary black authors or philosophers whose work aligns with the quote will also be identified.
Aberjhani's insightful statement encapsulates Baldwin's approach to identity and existence, emphasizing the need to resist simplistic categorizations. As an accomplished author, poet, and artist in his own right, he brings a unique perspective to his assessment. As an African American writer deeply engaged with cultural and sociopolitical issues, his insights into Baldwin's all-encompassing embrace of life stem from a shared understanding of the complexities of identity and societal structures. They are further bolstered by extensive body of work that includes: These Black and Blue Red Zone Days, co-authorship of Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance (Facts On File/Infobase Publishing), the frequently-quoted The River of Winged Dreams, and Dreams of the Immortal City Savannah.
Embracing Complexity in Identity
In the sociopolitical landscape, this perspective encourages a nuanced understanding of identity that goes beyond superficial divisions, fostering inclusivity and appreciation for the diverse experiences that shape individuals. It effectively illustrates how Baldwin challenged conventional norms to support fostering a holistic understanding of human experience. The metaphorical reference to the sun's gravitational pull evokes the idea that Baldwin's impact encompasses everything within its reach, from individual identities to institutional organizations and global issues.
In commemorating Baldwin's centennial, educators, activists, and cultural organizations can draw inspiration from Aberjhani's assessment to frame presentations or programs that celebrate the inclusivity inherent in Baldwin's work. This inclusive lens is not only relevant to the exploration of his legacy but also resonates with contemporary sociopolitical discourse on intersectionality, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various social categories.
The Google Doodle as a Symbolic Acknowledgment
Created by the New York-based artist Jon Key, the doodle may incorporate visual elements reflecting the author-activist’s commitment to equality, “speaking truth to power,” and his unapologetic stance against racial injustices. It is in this visual depiction, though uniquely representative of artist Key’s preferred palette and style, that the resonance with Aberjhani's statement becomes apparent – capturing the essence of a focused Baldwin's gravitational pull, at work with pen in hand drawing attention to the interconnectedness of the many facets of life that he embraced in his writings.
Educators, students, and advocates can leverage this visual representation as a starting point for discussions on the multifaceted nature of identity and the impact of Baldwin's contributions to literature and social discourse. In the words of artist Key himself, as shared on Google Doodles: “Entering rooms and lecture halls, bravely and brazenly, Baldwin was not afraid to speak his mind and advocate for marginalized voices. With the work I create, I am trying to manifest environments and community structures imbued with truth, pride and love––tenets that I think are exemplified by Baldwin’s texts and life.”
Aligning with An Expansive World View
LESSON PLAN FOR EDUCATORS
Lesson Title: Embracing Complexity: A Journey through James Baldwin's Worldview
OBJECTIVE: Students will gain a nuanced understanding of identity, diversity, and social justice through the exploration of James Baldwin's life and work.
Students will analyze contemporary works by black authors and philosophers to draw connections with Baldwin's legacy.
Activities: Introduction (1 class period):
Present Aberjhani's statement and discuss its implications.
Analyze the Google front-page doodle launched on February 1, 2024, as a visual representation of Baldwin's legacy.
Biographical Exploration (2 class periods):
Explore James Baldwin's life, major works, and key themes in his writings.
Discuss Baldwin's resistance to categorization and his impact on sociopolitical discourse.
Contemporary Connections (2 class periods):
Introduce Ta-Nehisi Coates and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie as contemporary voices exploring identity.
Analyze excerpts from their works, drawing parallels to Baldwin's ideas.
Divide students into small groups to discuss specific aspects of Baldwin's legacy and its contemporary relevance.
Each group will present their findings, fostering collaborative learning.
Creative Expression (2 class periods):
Encourage students to express their understanding through creative projects such as artwork, poetry, or essays.
Discuss how creative expression can serve as a powerful tool for exploring complex themes.
Reflection and Discussion (1 class period):
Facilitate a class-wide reflection on the lessons learned.
Discuss the applicability of Baldwin's ideas in addressing current social issues.
Assessment: Evaluate students based on their participation in group discussions, the quality of creative projects, and a reflective essay on the relevance of Baldwin's legacy in today's society.
Conclusion
By ChatGPT Op-Ed Contributor 4114
Special to AI Literary Chat Salon 2nd Volume 2024
Enduring Relevance of Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance in the Discourse of Contemporary Issues
8/25/2023
In 2003, Aberjhani, in collaboration with his late co-author Sandra L. West and foreword author Dr. Clement Alexander Price, unveiled the Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance. In addition, esteemed guest contributors the volume included: article authors Iris Formey-Dawson, Vaughnette Goode-Walker, Mary C. Lewis, and Karen E. Johnson, with an opening epigraph by Ja A. Jahannes.
As we commemorate the encyclopedia’s 20th anniversary, it is essential to recognize the profound significance of this remarkable publication, which has become a treasured resource for scholars, educators, and reading enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive work has not only garnered prestigious awards and secured its place in esteemed library collections worldwide, but continues to offer invaluable insights into the enduring relevance of the Harlem Renaissance and its impact on contemporary issues. Through its meticulous compilation of articles, maps, indices, and insightful introductions from scholars and thinkers, the volume acts as reliable a bridge between the past and the present.
Early Critical Reception
Upon its 2003 release, excellent book reviews for Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance appeared in numerous publications ranging from: the Atlanta Daily World, one of America’s earliest Black newspapers, to Choice, described by West as “the finest library journal, bar none, in the country.” The title was listed as recommended reading by Essence Magazine, noted in The Trenton Times, featured as part of a cover story on Aberjhani for CONNECT Savannah weekly newspaper, and even mentioned in the CAAWC ( Carolina African American Writers Collective) newspaper in Raleigh, North Carolina, which is mailed to ports all over the world. Many more recommended the volume as well. The authors participated in signings and interviews across the country.
“The Harlem Renaissance was not only a literary period or just a music period, though it sometimes appears that it is, based upon the strength of Langston Hughes' jazz poetry or the development of gospel and jazz music during that period. Aberjhani, the co-author, and I tried to approach the era from many more angles than are likely to be found elsewhere.
“There are discussions in the book, for example, of multicultural and homosexual relationships during the Harlem Renaissance. There is a glossary of slang vocabulary, the distinctive language of Harlemese, which were culled from a ‘jive’ dictionary written by Cab Calloway, Zora Neale Hurston's folklore vocabulary, expressions from the community folk, and other oral history sources.”
Controversy over Diversity and Inclusivity
West’s, Aberjhani’s, and their literary team's work reinforces the notion that grappling with the legacy of systemic racism, injustice, and the quest for equity is not a new concept but one that has spanned generations. The encyclopedia's presence in prestigious libraries and its endorsements from esteemed publications signal its academic credibility, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking a nuanced understanding of these issues.
Parallel Challenges
“…Racism is a reality today just as it was a reality back then. The question of the degree to which Blacks control their economic, political, social, and spiritual destinies around the world was relevant back then and is relevant now. The validity that society affords art and the value that society does or does not place upon the lives of creative artists working in any given medium was very much an issue during the renaissance and is very much an issue now."
"Doubts and concerns regarding leadership," he continued, "were voiced back then and are concerns right now. I would therefore hope that Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance encourages people to first of all confront whatever issues they are facing in their lives with honesty and then to establish some form of public dialogue, if needed, regarding the issue. I would hope this book would inspire them to establish creative solutions to the various challenges in their lives.”
Aberjhani's aspiration that the book inspire creative solutions to contemporary challenges reflects the transformative power of knowledge and the importance of engaging with history to shape a better future. Just as the Harlem Renaissance paved the way for innovative thought and progressive movements, the encyclopedia serves as a touchstone for individuals and communities––like those engaged in BIPOC advocacy, environmental justice, or antiracism activism––seeking to effect positive change.
In Conclusion
In an age when the digital realm reigns supreme, West’s, Aberjhani’s, and their team of contributor’s literary work stands as a reminder of the profound impact of print on cultural preservation and transformation. Just as the Harlem Renaissance paved the way for change, so too does this encyclopedia continue to spark conversations, inspire creative solutions, and ignite a passion for understanding the interconnectedness of our shared history.
Chat 444 Feature Contributor
Special to AI Literary Chat Salon 2023
for Bright Skylark Literary Productions
Introduction
Significance of the Trilogy as Contemporary Poetry and World Literature
- In "There Upon a Bough of Hope and Audacity," the poet portrays Obama as a songbird of hope, representing the democratic spirit and the transformative potential of leadership. The poem celebrates the diversity of Obama's heritage and the symbolism he carried as the 44th President of the USA.
- "Midnight Flight of the Poetry Angels" is a hauntingly beautiful haiku composition that incorporates Obama's words from "Dreams from My Father." The poem evokes a sense of contemplation and the need for healing amid turmoil, emphasizing the poet's role as a healer and messenger of hope.
- In "Angel of Hope’s Persistent Flight," haiku is skillfully used to reflect on the persistent challenges faced by Obama's administration. The verses highlight the world's wounds and the constant pursuit of hope and courage, with references to war, chaos, and the enduring power of love.
Importance of Studying the Trilogy
Analyses of Individual Poem Styles
"Midnight Flight of the Poetry Angels" comprises ten haiku that capture the essence of stillness, meditation, and healing. The poem's structure adheres to the traditional haiku form, featuring three lines and a 5-7-5 syllable pattern. Through this style, Aberjhani conveys profound meaning in concise expressions.
"Angel of Hope’s Persistent Flight" follows the same haiku form, using ten verses to evoke a sense of reflection on the challenges faced by Obama's administration. The poet expertly uses this traditional Japanese form to condense complex emotions and social issues into brief yet impactful verses.
Lesson Plan Suggestions
B. ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION: Divide students into groups and assign each group one of Aberjhani's poems. Encourage them to analyze the poems' themes, stylistic choices, and use of symbolism. Each group can present their findings to the class.
C. POETRY WORKSHOP: Engage students in a poetry workshop, encouraging them to write their own poems inspired by the trilogy of poems on Mr. Obama. Encourage experimentation with different forms, such as free verse, haiku, or other traditional styles.
D. CLASSROOM DISCUSSION: Lead a discussion on the role of poetry in society, how it can address political issues, and the impact of art on public perception.
Conclusion
ChatGPT Op-Ed Contributor 4114
Special to Literary Chat Salon Launch 2023
Introduction
By combining intimate reflections with journalistic documentation, the author unveils the vulnerabilities and resilience of human existence and leaves readers with a glimmer of hope amidst a world grappling with profound challenges. In addition to describing the written contents of each chapter in the paperback edition of These Black and Blue Red Zone Days, the 11 chapter titles below also describe the style of artwork included in corresponding chapters of the fine art gift book edition.
Chapter by Chapter Synopses
The book opens with an account of the pandemic's early impact on humanity through heartfelt letters written to the global community and "Homeless Friends of the Library" in Savannah, Georgia. The author's words unveil the stark reality faced by vulnerable populations during the crisis, where the quest for basic necessities became an arduous ordeal. The chapter sets the stage for the exploration of the pandemic's impact on individuals and communities, both in physical and emotional realms.
Chapter 2: Through a COVID-19 Lens Darkly
As the pandemic worsens, Aberjhani expresses gratitude to transportation workers who risk their lives daily and poignantly captures the absurdity of being summoned to court over a minor property maintenance issue – painting a backyard shed. Through letters and poetry, the author confronts the dichotomy of life during a pandemic, where trivialities persist alongside life-and-death struggles.
Chapter 3: Collective Angst and Private Heavens
This chapter delves into the experiences of "Healers of Bodies and Dreams" who have navigated the pandemic's frontlines. Aberjhani's letters convey the collective anxiety shared by those on the medical frontlines, while also exploring the private realms where healing and hope are sought.
Chapter 4: Dreaming at 100.4 Fever Degrees Fahrenheit
The author's poignant letters and poetry reflect the experiences of healers and homeless individuals during the pandemic. He highlights the vulnerability of the homeless population, emphasizing the urgent need for compassion and support during trying times.
Chapter 5: Black Folks and Existential Proclamations of the Blues
In this chapter, Aberjhani addresses issues of race and social injustice. Letters to "People of Chromatic Distinctions" express well-wishes, while others implore journalists to document his experiences with "predatory gentrification." Through these notes, the author reminds readers that systemic racism remains a pandemic of its own.
Chapter 6: Quarantine Cubism
As the pandemic confines people to their homes, the creative reaches out to "Poets, Artists, and Mad Souls of the World." This chapter explores how creativity becomes a sanctuary during isolation, allowing for the expression of complex emotions and perspectives. Included is: a statement of artistic vision, letter to poet Duncan McNaughton, and poems dedicated to artists Suzanne Jackson and Jerome Meadows.
Chapter 7: Remembering Red in a Different Way
In letters to young people and his own 14-year-old self, Aberjhani encourages resilience and introspection. The chapter captures the weight of the pandemic on the younger generation and offers guidance on navigating uncertainty.
Chapter 8: Traveling with the Angels
This chapter focuses on spiritual fortitude, with one poem dedicated to the late Nobel Laureate Toni Morrison. Aberjhani's letters and poems delve into the transcendental power of art and literature to elevate the human spirit during challenging times.
Chapter 9: Stormy Days in Georgia & Washington D.C.
The author addresses the events surrounding the "Attack on Capitol Hill" through letters to those involved. The chapter explores the complexities of the human condition and the hope for growth and learning even in the face of turmoil.
Chapter 10: This Time of Renewal and Re-weaving
The final chapter returns to the essence of humanity, where Aberjhani addresses letters and poems to humanity at large, poet Duncan McNaughton, and the "Homeless Friends of the Library." The author emphasizes the potential for renewal and reconnection as the world emerges from the pandemic's shadows.
Closing Epilogue: Seeker with the Inkhorn
In this reflective essay, the author-artist-poet contemplates his role as a creative spiritual seeker. The epilogue provides insights into his personal journey, the purpose behind his creative endeavors, and the mission of seeking beauty amid chaos.
Conclusion
ChatGPT Op-Editor 1101
Special AI Lit-Chat Salon Contributor
Articles in AI Literary Chat Salon are written in partnership with chat bots to achieve a wide spectrum of balanced objective input and authentic human considerations. All feedback related to posts welcomed.
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