"Walker Percy called it "the most important book on black-white relationships ... indeed on American culture ... published in this generation." Murray's singular poetic voice, impassioned argumentation, and pluralistic vision are perhaps more relevant today than ever before"-- Provided by publisher
Celebrated for its vibrant jazz influences, this collection showcases the complete works of a prominent African American author, bringing together the beloved four-novel Scooter sequence for the first time in a single volume. The narratives explore rich themes of culture and identity, capturing the essence of the era and the characters' experiences in a lively and engaging manner. Readers can expect a delightful journey through the author's distinctive storytelling and lyrical prose.
Explores the history, influences, development, and meaning of blues music. --From publisher description.
Challenging prevailing narratives of race, Albert Murray emphasizes the significance of black art, particularly jazz and blues, as foundational to American culture. He critiques the focus on victimhood, instead celebrating the "blues-hero tradition" that embodies resilience and creativity. This collection brings together his influential essays from The Omni-Americans, The Blue Devils of Nada, and From the Briarpatch File, alongside his memoir, lectures, and previously uncollected works, offering a comprehensive view of his contributions to cultural criticism and jazz.
"Murray Talks Music brings together, for the first time, many of Albert Murray’s finest interviews and essays on music—most never before published—as well as rare liner notes and prefaces. A celebrated educator and raconteur, and cofounder of Jazz at Lincoln Center, Murray engages with a variety of scholars and journalists while making insightful connections among music, literature, and other art forms—all with ample humor and from unforeseen angles."--Publisher's description.
Focusing on the journey of Scooter, the narrative captures his coming-of-age experience, showcasing his development as a significant character in contemporary American literature. The book builds upon themes and insights from Albert Murray's earlier autobiographical works, including Train Whistle Guitar, The Spyglass Tree, and The Seven League Boots, enriching the reader's understanding of Scooter's evolution and the broader context of his life.
Exploring the deep connections between black music and literature, this book highlights the parallels between fiction and the blues. It emphasizes how both forms serve as powerful performances that convey wisdom and moral insights. The author argues for the significance of improvisation in both genres and illustrates how they navigate the tension between sacred and profane themes, reflecting essential human values alongside the absurdities of existence. This innovative perspective invites readers to reconsider their understanding of literature through the lens of music.