Empire Windrush: Reflections on 75 Years & More of the Black British Experience

In June 1948, the SS Empire Windrush arrived in Tilbury, carrying hundreds of young men and women from the Caribbean, marking the beginning of mass migration to the UK and the unravelling of the Empire. This anthology collates the best and most significant writing to mark 75 years since the arrival, exploring the Black British experience through poetry, fiction, journalism, essays, and memoir.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 22 June 2023
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

In June 1948, the SS Empire Windrush arrived in Tilbury, carrying the hopes and dreams of hundreds of young men and women from the Caribbean. Their arrival marked a significant turning point in British history, heralding the beginning of mass migration to the UK and the unraveling of the Empire that had ruled over their lives for nearly four centuries. This landmark event had a profound impact on generations of writers, artists, and thinkers, shaping their perspectives and inspiring their work.

To commemorate the 75th anniversary of the arrival of Empire Windrush, journalist and writer Onyekachi Wambu has assembled a collection of some of the most outstanding and influential writing on the Black British experience. This anthology features poetry, fiction, journalism, essays, and memoirs by writers from the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia, including renowned figures such as Bernardine Evaristo, Zadie Smith, Andrea Levy, V.S. Naipaul, C.L.R. James, Salman Rushdie, John Agard, Stuart Hall, Ben Okri, Phyllis Wheatley, Olaudah Equiano, and Mary Prince.

Through their words, these writers delve into the rich tapestry of the Black British experience, exploring themes of identity, culture, history, and resistance. They offer a nuanced and multifaceted perspective on the challenges and triumphs faced by Black individuals in Britain, shedding light on the complexities of their lives and the contributions they have made to society.

Empire Windrush takes readers on a captivating journey through the British past, present, and future, offering a unique lens through which to understand the Black experience. The anthology explores the complexities of race, class, and gender, challenging stereotypes and revealing the hidden histories and struggles of Black communities. It also highlights the resilience and creativity of Black individuals, showcasing their achievements and contributions to art, literature, music, and politics.

In conclusion, Empire Windrush: An Anthology of Black British Writing is a vital and essential contribution to the literature on Black history and identity. By showcasing the diverse voices and experiences of Black writers from around the world, this anthology provides a deeper understanding of the Black British experience and its impact on British society. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of race, culture, and identity in modern Britain.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 164 x 243 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399601917