Jan Furman Libros

The essays in this volume represent the major currents in critical thinking about Song of Solomon , Toni Morrison's widely acclaimed examination of the individual quest for self-knowledge in the context of the African-American experience. This collection offers a broad overview of the scholarship that has emerged in the decades since the 1977 publication of Morrison's third novel. These essays provide a map of the primary themes of Song of Solomon , covering subjects such as self-identity, the rituals of manhood and reading, and the importance of naming, and also explore the novel's incorporation of African myth and African-American folklore. The casebook opens with "The People Could Fly," the African folktale from which Song of Solomon draws important aspects of its plot and major theme, and closes with an interview with Toni Morrison about her life and work as a novelist.

The book features updated critical commentary that delves into various themes and analyses, now including discussions on four additional novels. This expanded edition offers fresh insights and perspectives, enhancing the reader's understanding of the literary works. It serves as a valuable resource for both students and enthusiasts, providing a deeper exploration of narrative techniques, character development, and thematic elements across a broader selection of texts.

The memoir recounts John McCline's harrowing journey from slavery on a Tennessee plantation to freedom in the American West. Detailing life under the oppressive Hoggatt family, he shares insights into the daily existence of enslaved people, including their social and religious lives. After escaping at a young age, McCline served in the Union Army, experiencing pivotal Civil War battles. His narrative contributes to the understanding of race relations in the 19th century and offers a personal perspective on the struggles for freedom and identity.