Arguably the most celebrated and revered writer of our time now gives us a new nonfiction collection--a rich gathering of her essays, speeches, and meditations on society, culture, and art, spanning four decades.
The Source of Self-Regard is brimming with all the elegance of mind and style, the literary prowess and moral compass that are Toni Morrison's inimitable hallmark. It is divided into three parts: the first is introduced by a powerful prayer for the dead of 9/11; the second by a searching meditation on Martin Luther King Jr., and the last by a heart-wrenching eulogy for James Baldwin. In the writings and speeches included here, Morrison takes on contested social issues: the foreigner, female empowerment, the press, money, "black matter(s)," and human rights. She looks at enduring matters of culture: the role of the artist in society, the literary imagination, the Afro-American presence in American literature, and in her Nobel lecture, the power of language itself. And here too is piercing commentary on her own work (including The Bluest Eye, Sula, Tar Baby, Jazz, Beloved, and Paradise) and that of others, among them, painter and collagist Romare Bearden, author Toni Cade Bambara, and theater director Peter Sellars. In all, The Source of Self-Regard is a luminous and essential addition to Toni Morrison's oeuvre.
Editorial Review
Among the notable works in its genre, The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations by Toni Morrison has established itself as a must-read title. With a excellent rating of 4.31 out of 5 from 3,176 readers, this book has proven its appeal to a broad audience.
The book explores rich themes that keep readers engaged from start to finish. Arguably the most celebrated and revered writer of our time now gives us a new nonfiction collection--a rich gathering of her essays, speeches, and meditations on society, culture, and art, spanning four decades.The Source of Self-Regard is brimming with all the elegance of mind and style, the literary prowess and moral compass that are Toni Morrison's inimitable hallmark. It is divided into three parts: the first is introduced by a powerful prayer for the dead of 9/11; the second by a searching meditation on Martin Luther King Jr., and the last by a heart-wrenching eulogy for James Baldwin. In the writings and speeches included here, Morrison takes on contested social issues: the foreigner, female empowerment, the press, money, "black matter(s)," and human rights.
This 354-page volume, offers approximately 9 hours of reading time. The book demonstrates the publisher's commitment to quality literature and has been well-received by both critics and casual readers alike.
— Reviewed by Editorial App Deal Library ·
Why Read This Book?
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Highly Rated by Readers — The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations holds an impressive 4.31/5 rating from 3,176 readers, reflecting its wide appeal and consistent quality.
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Trusted Author — Toni Morrison is known for delivering quality writing that engages readers with compelling storytelling and well-researched content.
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Well-Balanced Length — With 354 pages, The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations strikes the right balance between depth and readability, making it accessible without sacrificing substance.
Reading Recommendations
If you enjoyed The Source of Self-Regard: Selected Essays, Speeches, and Meditations, you'll likely appreciate these similar titles: "The Selected Works of Audre Lorde", "A Burst of Light" and "A Long and Speaking Silence (The Singing Hills Cycle, #7)". These books share thematic elements and stylistic qualities that appeal to the same audience, offering equally engaging reading experiences.
Quick Summary
In 'The Source of Self-Regard,' Toni Morrison presents a compelling collection of essays, speeches, and meditations that reflect on the complexities of society, culture, and art over four decades. This work is divided into three sections, each introduced by poignant reflections on significant figures and events. Through her eloquent prose, Morrison addresses pressing social issues, exploring themes of identity, empowerment, and the human experience.
Key Takeaways
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Insights into the intersection of culture and identity.
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Reflections on historical and contemporary social issues.
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Exploration of the role of art in society.
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Powerful meditations on influential figures and events.
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Encouragement for readers to engage with their own self-regard.
Who Should Read This Book
This collection is ideal for readers interested in social commentary and the intersection of art and activism. Fans of Toni Morrison's fiction will appreciate her non-fiction insights, while those seeking a deeper understanding of cultural issues and human rights will find valuable perspectives. It is suitable for anyone looking to engage with thought-provoking literature.
Frequently Asked Questions
What themes are explored in this book?
The book delves into themes such as identity, empowerment, and social justice, examining how these concepts intersect with art and culture.
Is this book suitable for those unfamiliar with Morrison's work?
Yes, newcomers to Morrison's writing will find this collection accessible, as it provides a broad overview of her thoughts and insights on various societal issues.
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