Super Sad Black Girl

Diamond Sharps Super Sad Black Girl is a poetic exploration of the author's hometown of Chicago, seeking solace and community with literary idols and addressing the question of what it means for Black women to be free. The book employs repetition to create a sense of suspension and explores purgatorial in-between spaces, depicting mental illness with compassion and power.

Format: Hardback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2023
Publisher: Haymarket Books

Diamond Sharps' Super Sad Black Girl is a heartfelt tribute to her beloved hometown of Chicago, a place where she finds solace and a sense of community among her literary inspirations. In this captivating love letter, the speaker embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking answers to the profound question: What does it look like when Black women are free?

Throughout the book, the speaker is guided by the wisdom and guidance of Lorraine Hansberry and Gwendolyn Brooks, two influential figures who have left an indelible mark on the literary world. Their counsel helps her navigate her own struggles with depression and explores the complexities of the "Other Side." The voices of Sandra Bland, Rekia Boyd, and other Black women who have tragically lost their lives at the hands of police violence also resonate deeply, adding a poignant dimension to the speaker's journey.

Sharps' poetry is a testament to her self-assurance, playfulness, and imaginative spirit. It bears a striking resemblance to the precision and brevity of Langston Hughes, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing. The book delves into purgatorial, in-between spaces that the speaker occupies, as she grapples with the challenges of finding a safe and liberated existence.

Through her skillful use of repetition, particularly in her series of concrete poems, Sharps creates a haunting and immersive experience for the reader. Lines and voices echo across the pages, transporting the reader into the lyric moments of the book. It is a testament to Sharps' ability to suspend time and create a profound connection with her audience.

Super Sad Black Girl is not only a celebration of Black womanhood but also a compassionate and ethereal depiction of mental illness. Sharps' poetic language is raw and honest, capturing the complexities and nuances of the human experience with tenderness and precision. This book is a testament to the power of poetry to heal, inspire, and transform.

In conclusion, Diamond Sharps' Super Sad Black Girl is a remarkable work of art that offers a profound exploration of identity, freedom, and mental health. Through her poetic prowess and unwavering commitment to honesty, Sharps has created a masterpiece that resonates with readers of all backgrounds. This book is a testament to the power of storytelling and the transformative potential of poetry.

Weight: 264g
Dimension: 157 x 237 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781642598841