Not a Man, and Yet a Man

A.A. Whitman's collection of poems, "Not a Man, and Yet a Man" (1877), depicts the story of the nation on an epic scale, weaving history and personal experience into a narrative of hope, promise, and betrayal. Published to promote Wilberforce University's mission, the poem has been praised for its scope and Romantic style. Whitman's work during Reconstruction aimed to change the hearts and minds of white Americans and highlight the contributions of African Americans to the nation's growth and defense. This edition of the poem, with a beautiful cover and professionally typeset manuscript, is a classic of African American literature reimagined for modern readers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 202 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2022
Publisher: West Margin Press

A.A. Whitman's collection of poems titled Not a Man, and Yet a Man (1877) is a profound exploration of the human experience. Born into slavery, Whitman's journey was marked by resilience and determination. After facing numerous challenges, he secured employment as a financial agent and fundraiser for Wilberforce University, the first historically black college owned and operated by African Americans. Through his poetry, Whitman weaves a captivating narrative that spans the breadth of the nation, intertwining history and personal anecdotes to convey a message of hope, promise, and betrayal.

The primary objective of Not a Man, and Yet a Man is to promote the mission of Wilberforce University. Whitman's poetic language appeals to both right and common sense, emphasizing the injustices faced by African Americans during the period of Reconstruction. Despite their legal freedom, many African Americans continued to endure violence and prejudice as they sought to establish themselves in the workforce, build families, and own property. Whitman's poetry serves as a powerful testament to the contributions of African Americans to the nation's founding and growth, highlighting their unwavering determination to overcome adversity.

Furthermore, Whitman recognizes the debt owed to African Americans for their sacrifices in building the nation. He emphasizes the need to repay their contributions in various ways, including through the enlistment of African Americans in the Union Army to protect the nation from harm. Whitman's perspective is a testament to his understanding of the complexities of race and identity in nineteenth-century America, and his poetry offers a poignant reflection on the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

Not a Man, and Yet a Man is a remarkable debut from a pioneering voice in nineteenth-century American poetry. With its beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, the collection showcases Whitman's talent and dedication to his craft. The poems within the collection are rich in imagery, symbolism, and emotion, leaving a lasting impact on readers. Through his poetry, Whitman challenges societal norms, encourages empathy, and inspires hope for a better future.

In conclusion, Not a Man, and Yet a Man is a testament to the power of poetry to transcend boundaries and shed light on the human experience. Whitman's collection offers a profound exploration of race, identity, and the ongoing struggle for equality, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and resonate with readers today.

Dimension: 203 x 127 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513132310