Leadbelly by Tyehimba Jess

leadbelly written by Tyehimba Jess is a collection of poems inspired by the life and music of folk and blues artist Huddie William Ledbetter.  The book title is taken from Ledbetter's stage name.  Jess used historical documents, Leadbelly's recorded songs and lyrics, several biographies, and his own genius imagination to craft the poems found in his book.

Taken from Wikipedia: Huddie William Ledbetter (/ˈhjuːdi/; January 20, 1888 – December 6, 1949) better known as stage name Lead Belly was an American folk and blues singer, musician and songwriter notable for his strong vocals, virtuosity on the twelve-string guitar, and the folk standards he introduced.



The poem, for trouble's sake, is one of my favorite's because of it's grittiness and poetic charm. While I don't know if the character thought of himself in this way in real life, giving the life circumstances he had, I can empathize with him if he did.

Another favorite, because of the raw emotion behind it.  I'm thinking, it took much courage for a Black man to even think he could initiate a conversation with a White politician in such volatile times, let alone write to one.

The book contains a notes page, Leadbelly's life timeline, a reference page, as well as an acknowledgments page.

This book can be purchased on Amazon for $11.10
https://www.amazon.com/leadbelly-National-Poetry-Tyehimba-Jess/dp/0974635332/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=9780974635330&qid=1568395604&sr=8-1