Book Review: Say It Plain

Plainly Stated

Stars: 5/5

Say It Plain is a must-have addition to anyone's library of African-American literature. The speeches included in this book/audio CD allow the reader/listener to delve into the thoughts of some of the greatest African-American orators of the past century. To reflect upon what was said decades ago and quickly come to the realization that what was stated then can still be said today and still be relevant is simply amazing, if not unsettling. For example, more than a quarter of a century ago Rev. Joseph Lowery spoke on issues such as the rising rate of Black unemployment, the lack of Black leaders in American government and the ratio of the Black population in the United States (11%, at the time) to number of enlisted persons in the military who were black (33.3%, at the time).

Although Say It Plain misses the mark by excluding of one of the most powerful African-American orators, Malcom X, it is still nonetheless comprehensive. One should appreciate the diverse group of orators who are included; from Marcus Garvey and his Black Separatist views to Clarence Thomas and his politically conservative views. Moreover, listening to the accompanying audio CD, one will get a sense of the different oratory styles: Jesse Jackson's inspirational "I was born in the slum, but the slum was not born in me.", Dick Gregory's comedic "...the good old days was 10 B.C., 15 B.C. .........10, 15 years before Bull Connor.", and Johnetta B. Cole's charge to her African-American sisters to "Defend Thy Name".

Say It Plain is not just twenty-plus speeches that were transcribed, placed in chronological order, and sold as a book. Before each speech there is a brief introduction that provides the reader with some context: a historical perspective of the speaker, the events of the time, or simply when, where and why the speech was given. In many cases, this brief introduction is as significant as the speech itself.

All in all, I would suggest taking a refresher course in African-American history - with a twist - and read and listen to Say It Plain. Your mind and spirit will thank you for it.

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