5 must-read classic short stories by black authors

A BRIEF look at some notable short stories penned by black authors:

James Baldwin, a classic African American writer, writes ‘Sonny’s Blues’ to show the differences between two brothers and the way that they deal with the world around them. This story examines the extreme ways people deal with the trials and tribulations of life. Sonny’s brother tries to insulate himself against the problems and ignore the difficulties while Sonny himself faces his problems head on, for better or worse. The troubles in their lives are further exacerbated by the fact that they are African American.

Through science fiction, ‘Faces at the Bottom of the Well’ explores the multifaceted aspects of racism in a series of allegories. In the brilliant scenario entitled ‘Space Invaders’, visitors from outer space demand the US government it’s black citizen in turn for a chance to clean up pollution, new technology and enough gold to erase its debts. It’s a frightening tale of how rights aren’t secured for marginalised people who lack power to defend and protect themselves.

In this brilliant narrative, Kincaid explores the the stereotypical roles of Caribbean women through the conversation between a mother and daughter. Yet, the mother’s explicit instructions do not completely limit her to passive or docile roles, but at times teach her how to navigate and have power within those tight spaces.

In the short story ‘Thank you, Ma’am’, Hughes tells a story about a young boy’s and an older woman’s paths colliding when the child attempts to steal her purse. In the process of the theft he loses his balance and the women kicks him in the butt onto the street before, literally and symbolically, picking him up. Through this piece, Hughes humanises the tough old black woman and young hoodlum unlike white authors of the time.

Zora Neale Hurston – novelist, folklorist, and anthropologist – writes the story of a woman trapped in a physically, emotionally and verbally abusive relationship. Though a victim of domestic violence, the protagonist is not a weak person. It is her strength which her husband is threatened by, and it is her strength that will be the source to overcoming the abuse.

– blackculture.com

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