This book is a study of the works of Margaret Walker (1915–1998) in chronological order, in the social and intellectual context of twentieth century America. Walker is a writer who is known by name for her works; however, very little criticism is written on her literary contributions. This is the first monograph on Walker’s work by a single author and is an attempt to establish the importance of Walker’s representation of twentieth-century America against its critical obscurity. This book shows that Walker is a woman writer who slipped to the margins of the African American literary canon for improper reasons. Material presented in this study is based on research on available criticism published on Walker’s work. It is also based on research on the social, intellectual, and political aspects of twentieth-century America. This text also incorporates information derived from the researcher’s close reading of Walker’s work. It argues that issues of race, gender, and class are always connected in twentieth-century America and in Walker’s work as reflective of this century in America. It also argues that Walker’s feminist consciousness develops from one work to another until it reaches its peak in her later poetry.
In selecting Margaret Walker as the recipient of the Yale Series of Younger Poets in 1942—making her the first African American to receive this national literary award—Stephen Vincent Benét proclaimed hers a vibrant new voice, finding in her collection For My People “a controlled intensity of emotion and a language that, at times, even when it is most modern, has something of a surge of biblical poetry.” Today, more than seventy years later, Walker’s voice still resonates with particular power. Addressing the literature and culture of black America, This Is My Century, first published in 1989, marked a significant contribution to American poetry, bringing together Walker’s selection of one hundred of her own poems. On the eve of the centennial of Walker’s birth, the University of Georgia Press is proud to reissue this classic of American letters. In addition to her award-winning debut collection, the volume includes Prophets for a New Day (1970), a celebration of the civil rights movement; October Journey (1973), a collection of autobiographical and dedicatory poems; and thirty-seven previously uncollected poems.
Step into the captivating world of the 17th century with Mary C. Rowsell's "Ninon de l'Enclos and Her Century," a riveting biography that paints a vivid portrait of one of history's most intriguing women and the era she influenced. Mary C. Rowsell masterfully brings to life Ninon de l'Enclos, a renowned French courtesan, author, and patron of the arts, who defied societal norms and left an indelible mark on her century. Through engaging storytelling and meticulous research, Rowsell explores Ninon's extraordinary life, her wit, intelligence, and the salon culture she epitomized. The book delves into key plot points, such as Ninon's relationships with influential figures, her philosophical outlook, and her contributions to literature and society. Rowsell's portrayal of Ninon is rich with character development, showcasing her evolution from a rebellious youth to a respected and influential figure in French society. Themes of independence, intellectual freedom, and the complexities of love and power run throughout the narrative. Rowsell also highlights significant passages that reveal Ninon's thoughts on gender, society, and the human condition, offering readers profound insights into her progressive mindset. With a tone that is both elegant and informative, "Ninon de l'Enclos and Her Century" captures the essence of the 17th century, from the opulent salons of Paris to the intricate dynamics of court life. Rowsell's vivid descriptions and well-crafted prose immerse readers in the historical context, making the past come alive with vibrancy and detail. Since its publication, the book has been celebrated for its thorough research and engaging narrative. Historians, literary enthusiasts, and general readers have praised it for shedding light on a fascinating period and an even more fascinating woman. Engage with this compelling biography and discover the world of Ninon de l'Enclos—a world where wit and intellect triumphed over societal constraints. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of biographies, or someone interested in the stories of remarkable women, this book offers a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. In conclusion, "Ninon de l'Enclos and Her Century" is more than just a biography—it's a window into a transformative era, seen through the eyes of a woman who challenged and shaped it. Rowsell's detailed and captivating portrayal makes this book a must-read for anyone looking to understand the interplay of gender, power, and culture in history. Don't miss your chance to delve into this enriching and enlightening narrative. Get your copy today and join the many readers who have been enthralled by Mary C. Rowsell's literary accomplishment. Don't miss your chance to explore the life and times of Ninon de l'Enclos. Let "Ninon de l'Enclos and Her Century" transport you to an era of intellectual brilliance and social intrigue. Grab your copy now and uncover the legacy of one of history's most fascinating women.
“Radiant.” —O, The Oprah Magazine From cherished memories of childhood weekends with Nana to the reality of the year she spent “ladysitting,” Lorene Cary journeys through stories of their time together and five generations of their African American family. Weaving a narrative of her complicated relationship with Nana—a fiercely independent and often stubborn woman whose family fled the Jim Crow South and who managed her own business until 100—Cary captures the ruptures, love, and forgiveness that can occur in family as she bears witness to her grandmother’s vibrant life.
To honour the Queen Mother and mark the occasion of her 100th birthday, Dundurn Press is publishing a biography of this remarkable woman in words and pictures. Since her marriage to George VI, the Queen Mother has been a public figure who has always evoked passionate reactions: whether it was the anonymous soldier who vowed "to fight for that little lady," Adolf Hitler who described her as "the most dangerous woman in Europe," or the Canadian journalist who coined the expression "the Queen Mum." A Canadian perspective on a sovereign who created and cultivated a special relationship with Canada informs The Queen Mother and Her Century. The first of many tours of Canada, the Royal Tour of 1939, which gave Canadians our initial opportunity to experience the Queen Motherâe(tm)s personal magnetism first-hand, is described in detail, along with the many Canadian relationships the Queen Mother has formed since. The Queen Mother and Her Century is a wonderful album-sized (81/2âe x 11âe ) commemorative keepsake and makes a thoughtful gift for the many admirers of the Queen Mother. The text and 120 colour photographs are complemented by time bars, lists of the Queen Motherâe(tm)s official tours, associations the Queen Mother is patron of, places that are named after the Queen Mother, and the Royal Family tree.
An original collection of four plays about unsung women from the history of the Canadian west. With theatrical twists and turns, Her Voice, Her Century takes us from an English doctor plunked into the middle of Alberta's unsettled north country, to a Canadian journalist covering the First World War, to the scandalous relationship between an Alberta politician and a young secretary, to the lives and work of two influential early Canadian photographers. Written for contemporary audiences and drawing heavily on newspaper articles, private letters, and court transcripts, this collection captures an authenticity of voice, using techniques of historical drama to connect the dots. Includes photos from the Provincial Archives of Alberta along with details of original production choices and stills from the productions. The plays included in the book are Letters from Battle River, Respecting the Action for Seduction, and The Unmarried Wife, co-written by David Cheoros and Karen Simonson, and Firing Lines, written by Debbie Marshall.
The Ziegfeld Follies, Florenz Ziegfeld's stage spectaculars, promised the best performers, the most lavish sets, and the most ravishing girls. Doris Eaton Travis was one of these prized beauties–and, at 14, was chosen as the youngest chorus girl in the Follies. "Mine eyes are yet dim with the luminous beauty of a girl named Doris," one Chicago reviewer wrote. Doris Eaton Travis was the last living Ziegfeld girl. In her 106 years, she performed for presidents and princesses, entertained Gershwin, Lindbergh, and Astaire, starred in silent and talking pictures, bantered with Babe Ruth, offended Henry Ford, outlived six siblings, written a newspaper column, hosted a television show, earned a Phi Beta Kappa degree in history, raised turkeys, and raced horses. In 2010, she performed on Broadway, returned home to Detroit and two weeks later peacefully passed away. Century Girl is a visual tour of this extraordinary woman's journey through life.
This collection of papers draws on insights from social anthropology to illuminate historical material, and presents a set of closely integrated studies on the inter-connections between feminism and medical, social and educational ideas in the nineteenth century. Throughout the book evidence from both the USA and UK shows that feminists had to operate in a restricting and complex social environment in which the concept of "the lady" and the ideal of the saintly mother defined the nineteenth-century woman’s cultural and physical world.
