AUDIO

Citizen: An American Lyric

by Claudia Rankine
2 CDs. 1:37 hrs. Tantor. 2015. ISBN 9781494510510. $29.99. 1 MP3-CD. LIT
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Academy of American Poets chancellor Rankine (poetry, Pomona Coll., Don't Let Me Be Lonely) explores daily acts of racism in this poetic essay. Moving at a pace that varies greatly throughout the work, small "you see" or "you hear" statements provide examples of racist remarks that often go unchallenged in society, but Rankine spends time examining the thoughts (in both her own words and those of the person speaking) and her possible reactions that did not come forth in the moment. This is a work that benefits from being listened to several times to appreciate fully the nuanced wording and references. Narrator Allyson Johnson reads the prose with a lilting voice during some parts and a harsh, angry tone during others to match the situation.
VERDICT Sometimes shocking, sometimes disturbing, but always thoughtful, this work is for fans of Rankine and modern poetry, those who care for societal and racial concerns, and those who want to help change negative views on race.
Reviewed by Jason L. Steagall, Gateway Technical Coll. Lib., Elkhorn, WI , Oct 01, 2015
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