Jericho Brown Libros

The Tradition explores cultural threats on black bodies, resistance, and the interplay of desire and privilege in a dangerous era.

Exploring themes of race, sexuality, and trauma, Jericho Brown's collection presents a poignant examination of contemporary American society. Through clear and lyrical poetry, he illustrates a world marked by disease and violence, reflecting on the impact of these elements across generations. Brown's innovative use of Biblical narratives offers a profound commentary on the gay experience, intertwining personal and political dimensions to challenge and enrich the reader's understanding of identity and resilience.

In this special edition of Jericho Brown's Pulitzer Prize-winning The Tradition,you are invited to participate in an urgent dialog--sparked by poetry--about what it means to be human. Including a discussion guide and an interview with the author, The Tradition: Civic Dialog Editionis meant to catalyze and inspire deep and engaging community conversations. In 2021, the Free Library of Philadelphia selected The Traditionfor their annual city-wide reading program, choosing a book of poetry for the first time ever. The vision was for neighbor to meet neighbor and discuss--in profound and transformative ways--the difficult subjects confronted so powerfully by the poems: racism, homophobia, violence, and the human resolve to compose a joyful life. To encourage other communities--cities, schools, book groups--to follow Philadelphia's lead, Copper Canyon Press collaborated with the Free Library to create The Tradition: Civic Dialog Edition. The dream is to tap the power of poetry to open hearts, clarify vision, spark conversation, and help make the world a more just and equitable place. And, if we're fortunate, to laugh as freely and share as openly as the poet himself.