A Brief Overview of African American Literature Before Urban Fiction

 

Urban fiction isn’t the first foray into African American literature or depiction of the social and cultural struggles African Americans have faced. It has a long history filled with dramatic, heart-wrenching, and poetic works.

There have been groundbreaking works for which black authors have won huge mainstream acclaim as well.

1. Antebellum Literature

Antebellum literature started with African American writers joining the war of words between England and the rebelling colonies. This was the first attempt to show black writers and poets were just as eloquent and talented as white poets.

The Nat Turner Rebellion gave rise to fervent antislavery movements where the writing shifted to include slave narratives. It explained the struggles for independence and liberty while also covering the brutal reality of the sexual exploitation of black women.

This literature wasn’t the primary source portraying historical trauma for the reader’s enjoyment. It was an unprecedented model of black eloquence.

2. Poetry and Prose

From the slave narrative, African American literature also entered the world of dramatic literature and poetry. It was here the first American novel Clotel, or The President’s Daughter was written.

Five years later, the first African American play was published as well. The writers were poignant and passionate, which led the way to the first African American literary renaissance.

3. Harlem Renaissance

Harlem Renaissance is the bold, experimental output of African American literature and what most people recognize. This Manhattan-focused and jazz-inflected movement represented the start of the New Negro Movement. 

It encompassed the poetry, fiction, and nonfiction of earlier black authors, which eventually led to black culture and folklore becoming celebrated and popular.

4. Civil Rights Literature

During the height of the civil rights movement, African American writers were at the heart of it all. They used their literature to declare that, ultimately, all art was social. Their work featured more explicitly and critically social verse and inspired Black pride. Works largely consisted of apolitical critiques as well.

5. Urban Realism

Urban realism walked so that urban fiction could run. The chief proponent of urban realism was Richard Wright, who dominated the African American literary scene with his works of fiction, autobiography, and social commentary. His work won significant critical acclaim.

African American literature like these challenges literary convention with its challenging material. A material that is tackled with grace and poignancy. Evocative characterization and daring descriptions truly show why books are considered a work of art.

Explore the Latest in African American Literature with Urban Fiction

Reading lets you explore a world that might be similar or different from what you know. Brush up on your reading and explore African American literature’s latest take through Urban Fiction.

Start with Charlie Mon’s Never Imagined. This book has the angst and suspense about the unforgivable streets of San Bernardino, California, which will keep you on the edge of your seat. Purchase your copy and share your comments and concerns with the author