EGL 248 - Introduction to Contemporary Black Poetry: Black Lives Matter Poetry

Course Units: 1.0

We will explore contemporary Black poetic voices in the United States-specifically the poetry of Black Lives Matter. We will investigate poetry as a form of protest for African Americans, more specifically how poetry is used “to eradicate white supremacy” and resist violence against Black communities. We will read, discuss, and examine Black literary “imagination and innovation” and ask the following question: What does it mean to be “Black” in contemporary America? Ultimately, this class aims to center the life, experience, and artistic expression of African Americans. A partial list of poets includes: Kevin Young, Claudia Rankine, Patricia Smith, Jericho Brown, Eve Ewing, Danez Smith, Terrence Hayes, Tracy K. Smith, Amanda Gordan. Prerequisite(s): One 100-level English course or a score of 5 on the AP English Language or Literature and Composition test. Students who have previously taken EGL 115 may not enroll. CC: LCC, HUL, HUM, WAC ISP: AFR, AMS