Resilience, Reflection, and Redemption: ‘These Black and Blue Red Zone Days’ in the Post-Pandemic Era

(“Turning Pages of a New A.I. Era Dawning” concept and digital painting by Aberjhani ©2023 based on draft sketches created using Dall-E)

Introduction

In the wake of the declared end of the COVID-19 pandemic, These Black and Blue Red Zone Days, by author-artist Aberjhani, serves as a powerful testimony to the enduring impact of the global crisis. The book is a collection of letters, stories, and poetry that offer readers a multifaceted exploration of the pandemic's effects on the author's hometown of Savannah, Georgia. Beyond the virus itself, the work delves into issues like systemic racism, social inequalities, and the use of creativity as a means of survival during extreme circumstances.

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

Chapter 1: Into the Red Zone
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.
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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.
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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

These Black and Blue Red Zone Days by Aberjhani is a profound literary work that captures the raw emotions, struggles, and hopes experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. By addressing not only the virus but also the deeper systemic issues plaguing society, the author provides a compelling narrative of human resilience and the power of creativity to heal and uplift. As the world grapples with the aftermath of the pandemic, Aberjhani's book serves as a timeless testament to the strength of the human spirit and the potential for positive change even in the darkest of times.

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