A review by dexcg
Revolutionary Suicide by Huey P. Newton

informative inspiring reflective

Newton’s analysis of the intersections between class and race consistently impresses me because of how intentionally and effectively he put his philosophy into action through the Party. I love the idea that neither he nor the Party would ever make decisions based on the popular opinion of the moment but would rather have their stances validated over time because they spent so much effort making the right decisions. At times, Newton’s sexism and homophobia are exposed in his writing (although he does reflect on his sexism, in fairness), his compassionate view of the world and willingness to stand with his people are the themes that shine. I’m looking forward to reading Elaine Brown’s A Taste of Power to get my impression of Newton turned asunder by a woman who actually worked with and knew him intimately, but for now I’m feeling inspired by the politics present in Revolutionary Suicide (even if I’m not 100% on Newton’s bleak application of the titular concept).