"Fifty Years, & Other Poems" by James Weldon Johnson is a rich collection of poetry from the early 1900s that shows the trials, dreams, and identity of African Americans after slavery was abolished. The book uses thoughtful and heartfelt language to explore what it meant to be Black in America. The main poem, "Fifty Years," looks back at the hard journey from slavery to freedom, showing both the good and bad times. Other poems touch on love, memories, and the beauty of life, always with strong feelings and pictures painted with words. The collection also celebrates Black culture through songs, thoughts, and stands against unfairness, pushing for understanding and fairness for all. Each poem brings a unique voice, giving a clear view of the world Johnson lived in.
Fifty Years, & Other Poems
By James Weldon Johnson
Experience a moving journey through verse, painting vivid pictures of the African American experience during a pivotal time in American history.
Summary
About the AuthorJames Weldon Johnson was an American writer and civil rights activist. He was married to civil rights activist Grace Nail Johnson. Johnson was a leader of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), where he started working in 1917. In 1920, he was chosen as executive secretary of the organization, effectively the operating officer. He served in that position from 1920 to 1930. Johnson established his reputation as a writer, and was known during the Harlem Renaissance for his poems, novel and anthologies collecting both poems and spirituals of Black culture. He wrote the lyrics for "Lift Every Voice and Sing", which later became known as the Black National Anthem, the music being written by his younger brother, composer J. Rosamond Johnson.
James Weldon Johnson was an American writer and civil rights activist. He was married to civil rights activist Grace Nail Johnson. Johnson was a leader of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), where he started working in 1917. In 1920, he was chosen as executive secretary of the organization, effectively the operating officer. He served in that position from 1920 to 1930. Johnson established his reputation as a writer, and was known during the Harlem Renaissance for his poems, novel and anthologies collecting both poems and spirituals of Black culture. He wrote the lyrics for "Lift Every Voice and Sing", which later became known as the Black National Anthem, the music being written by his younger brother, composer J. Rosamond Johnson.
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