This was my first encounter with Mr. Hughes, and I was very worried that I should have been starting with The Weary Blues and a physical copy of the book, but I still found myself moved by his poetry and anecdotes, as well as surprised by how earlier in the Civil Rights movement socialism had begun rearing up.  It was really interesting to hear how carefully he had to balance writing about his experiences against seeming a little too sympathetic to anti-capitalist sentiments, especially while being a black man in America.  His experiences are really incredible to read about, and his poetry is truly expert.

there’s a LOT going on here- some absolutely devastating, phenomenal poems about racist violence, some sophomoric communist propaganda, a lot of very intriguing takes on christ, and finally, a statement given before the HUAC where he walks it all back in an understandable by still disappointing and spineless manner. a great read for people who are interested in 20th century social poetry!