TRIALS OF PHILLIS WHEATLEY: AMERICA’S FIRST BLACK POET (Introduction)

A PERSONAL MESSAGE TO ALL READERS ON THE BLACKINAMERICA SITE:
I JUST SIGNED UP THIS WEEK AFTER SOME MONTHS POSTING ON SISTER SITE “BLACKHISTORY.COM”. MANY OF YOU WHO ARE ALSO ON THAT SITE WILL RECOGNIZE THAT MOST OF MY BLOGS AND POSTS FOCUS ON AREAS OF BLACK HISTORY THAT I HAVE FOUND INTERESTING OR WORTHY OF SHARING.

Most recently, I have been running a series on Phillis Wheatley. Her name is familiar to many. Most people know that she was the first African-American published poet—but little else.


I wanted to know more about this woman. Who was Phillis Wheatley? What made her great? What exactly were her accomplishments? And what obstacles did she face?


I received some powerful inspiration and encouragement in this effort from the gifted poets who have shared their art here and on the blackhistory.com site. After getting blown away by their profound ideas and graceful way with words, I resolved to give them something in return.


As a teacher and writer, the best thing would be for me to educate myself about the first African-American poet, learn what I could and share my discoveries.


I may be a writer but I am a Godawful poet. I enjoy doing historical research, especially in black history—and I love writing about it.


So here is my offering. It is my way of giving back to this wonderful community.


I have created a twelve part series of blogs on the life and work of Phillis Wheatley. I did all the research and the writing is mine. Any place where I quoted someone else that is clearly evident. I used plenty of primary sources. It was important to let Phillis speak for herself, as much as possible. So I was able to include passages from personal letters written by Phillis, herself.


For those of you who read some of these on the blackhistory.com site, please accept my apology for running them again. As you writers know, there are always revisions to be made. Since last time I posted them, I have found new documents and new information to put in. Also, I revised the text to make it read better. There is always room for improvement.


So, to the poets among you all, this is for you:


JO ANNA, whose MOST ASTONISHING SPIRIT OF LIFE literally took my breath away and still resonates in my soul.


MOZELL, whose book of poems, ARRIVALS, DEPARTURES AND FLIGHTS OF FANCY just came in the mail. I would like to suggest everyone pick up a copy and enjoy some real gems of hard-earned wisdom.


SIEBRA, who writes so deeply and spiritually with grace, humanity and good humor.

MIISREAL, whose beautiful poetry inspired me and made me think.


DEE whose heartfelt poem of faith inspired nearly 300 readings and deserves more!


And IRMA, that dear grand lady whose whole life is God’s Poem (smile!)


So here is the first part of the story of Phillis Wheatley. If you read them all you will get to know Phillis Wheatley as well as anyone can possibly know her.


Every writer needs readers. I would love to receive your feedback, find out what you think about some of the points I am making.


Thank you for your kind attention! I hope to hear from you all!


PEACE,
Rich