Look For Me and I'll Be Gone

John Edgar Wideman's latest collection of stories is a vital reading for anyone interested in the state of America today, covering topics such as Michael Jordan, Emmett Till, distrust of authority, grief, childhood memories, and the final day in a prison cell. The stories are innovative, imaginative, and reflect Wideman's exploration of time and place.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 336 pages
\n Publication date: 04 November 2021
\n Publisher: Canongate Books Ltd
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Forty years after the publication of John Edgar Wideman's debut collection of stories, this remarkable compilation emerges as a crucial literary masterpiece, resonating with individuals who seek to understand the current state of America. Spanning a diverse range of subjects, from the iconic figure of Michael Jordan to the tragic tale of Emmett Till, this collection explores profound themes such as skepticism towards authority, the weight of everyday grief, the nostalgia of childhood memories, and the final moments spent in a prison cell.

In a poignant scene, a young boy finds himself confined in his grandmother's house, unable to approach the room where his grandfather's coffin rests. Fear grips him, as he fears the dead man may speak or remain silent. The melancholic melody of Freddie Jackson's song "You Are My Lady" plays on the car radio, accompanying a son as he is taken to a prison cell in Arizona. The narrator reflects on the Atlanta child murders of 1979, a haunting chapter in American history.

Wideman, renowned for his artistic prowess, never settles for mere storytelling. Instead, he continuously challenges conventional forms, weaving intricate narratives within stories, crafting sentences that ascend like a captivating jazz solo, with each connecting clause adding depth and complexity. The voices employed in these stories reflect Wideman's unique identity and the rich tapestry of his background, creating a profound connection between the reader and the author.

Furthermore, Wideman delves into the intricate dance of time, intertwining past and present in a way that sparks contemplation and reflection. Whether the narratives take place in historical contexts or contemporary settings, they encompass a broad spectrum of human experiences, from intimate moments of introspection to expansive explorations of society.

Within these pages, readers encounter a pioneering American writer whose boundless innovation and imagination know no limits. John Edgar Wideman's stories serve as a testament to his profound understanding of the human condition and his unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. This collection is a must-read for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the complexities of contemporary America and the rich tapestry of its literary heritage.

\n Weight: 448g\n
Dimension: 145 x 222 x 34 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781838855161\n
Edition number: Main\n