The Blackness of Black: Key Concepts in Critical Discourse

This book explores the relations among blackness, antiblackness, and Black people within the discourse of the blackness of black, tracing three trajectories: Frank Wildersons "Afropessimism," Fred Motens "generative blackness," and Calvin Warrens "black nihilism."

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 262 pages
Publication date: 15 May 2022
Publisher: Lexington Books

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate web of relations between blackness, antiblackness, and Black people within the framework of blackness itself. This critical discourse emerged over the past two decades, driven by scholars' exploration of the lingering impacts of slavery, as described by Saidiya Hartman. At the heart of this discourse lies Hartman's concept, which posits a troubling continuity between the experiences of enslaved and emancipated Black people. This concept serves as a pivotal point, connecting various discursive tributaries and shaping the trajectories of thought.

The discourse of the blackness of black encompasses five foundational concepts: Frantz Fanon's "phobogenic blackness," Orlando Patterson's "social death," Cedric Robinson's "racial capitalism and the black radical tradition," and Hortense Spillers' "flesh." These concepts form the bedrock upon which the book explores the complexities of the afterlife of slavery.

The book traces three distinct trajectories within this realm: Frank Wilderson's "Afropessimism," Fred Moten's "generative blackness," and Calvin Warren's "black nihilism." These trajectories offer valuable insights into the evolving perspectives on the relations among blackness, antiblackness, and Black people. By examining these concepts together, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the current state of our understanding in this domain.

Through its meticulous analysis and thoughtful exploration, this book offers a profound exploration of the complex interplay between blackness, antiblackness, and Black people. It sheds light on the historical, social, and cultural factors that have shaped these relations and provides a roadmap for navigating the ongoing challenges and opportunities in this critical area of study.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781793615886