Black Efficiency in America: Exploring Abdurraqib's Unique Perspective

A stirring meditation on Black efficiency in America from the  New York Occasions  bestselling writer of  Go Forward within the Rain

“Whether or not heralding unsung entertainers or reexamining legends, Hanif Abdurraqib weaves collectively beautiful essays that reveal the resilience, heartbreak, and pleasure inside Black efficiency. I learn this e-book breathlessly.”—Brit Bennett, writer of  The Vanishing Half

At the 1963 March on Washington, Josephine Baker, at fifty-seven years old, reflected on her life and legacy, acknowledging her past as a "demon" in various countries and even in America. Her words inspired Hanif Abdurraqib to delve into the profound connection between Black performance and American culture. Abdurraqib's exploration uncovers how every moment of performance, be it in music like "Gimme Shelter" or even a game of spades, resonates with the intertwined histories of Black and white cultures, American politics, and his own personal experiences of love, loss, and performance.

In his writing, Abdurraqib beautifully captures the exuberance and pain of Black performances, channeling the lyrical essence of beloved musicians. With a mix of insight, humor, and heart, he delves into the profound significance of these experiences, whether grand or intimate. Through A Little Satan in America: he celebrates the Black performance art that unfolds in various moments, spanning from midcentury Paris to the moon, and even to a cozy living room in Columbus, Ohio.

From the Writer