Every Shut Eye Ain't Asleep

Every Shut Eye Ain't Asleep is an anthology of African American poetry from 1945 to the present, edited by Michael S. Harper and Anthony Walton. The collection features work from both established and emerging voices in Black poetry, presenting diverse perspectives across multiple generations. The anthology includes poems from writers like Gwendolyn Brooks, Robert Hayden, and Rita Dove, alongside contemporary poets. Each section contains biographical information about the contributors and provides context for their work within the larger scope of African American literary tradition. The poems address themes of identity, struggle, love, family, and the complex experience of Black life in America. Through varied forms and styles - from free verse to traditional structures - the collection spans decades of artistic evolution in African American poetry. This anthology stands as a record of how African American poets have used language to document lived experiences, challenge cultural narratives, and create art that speaks to both personal truth and collective memory.

Readers view this anthology as a strong collection of African American poetry from 1945-1990, featuring established and lesser-known poets. The book includes both traditional and experimental works. Liked: - Broad representation of different poetic styles and voices - Inclusion of both academic and street-influenced poetry - Helpful biographical notes and context for each poet - Strong selections from poets like Bob Kaufman and Julia Fields Disliked: - Some readers found certain experimental poems difficult to follow - A few noted the lack of some major poets from the era - Limited representation of women poets Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (32 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (8 ratings) One reviewer on LibraryThing noted: "The anthology introduces poets I'd never encountered before, expanding my understanding of Black poetry beyond the usual names." A Goodreads reviewer mentioned the collection "bridges the gap between academic poetry and more accessible works."

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📚 The anthology includes works from 35 African American poets who published between 1945 and 1994, showcasing both well-known voices and lesser-known talents. 🖋️ Co-editor Michael S. Harper was the first Poet Laureate of Rhode Island (1988-1993) and a National Book Award finalist for his own poetry collection "Images of Kin." 📖 The book's title comes from an African American proverb meaning "appearances can be deceiving" or "just because someone's eyes are closed doesn't mean they're not aware." 🎓 Co-editor Anthony Walton was a protégé of Harper at Brown University and went on to become an acclaimed essayist and poet in his own right. 📝 The anthology deliberately focuses on poets who emerged after World War II, marking a distinct shift from the Harlem Renaissance era and showcasing modernist and experimental forms in African American poetry.