Take a photo of a barcode or cover
themrbook 's review for:
The Willie Lynch Letter and the Making of a Slave
by Willie Lynch
What to say about this book. I’ve heard so much about it over the years, and since I’m developing the habit to purposely read more direct source material, I decided to finally read this.
First—whether a true document or not—it might truly be the most disgusting read I’ve ever undertaken, and that includes horrendous, gut-wrenching accounts regarding Native Americans, Jews during the Holocaust, and the Rape of Nanking.
Second, I can understand why this has become an influential and oft-cited document. Lynch’s systematic approach toward “breaking” and unbalancing slaves is Mengele-ian. Lynch’s approaches have seemed to echo down through the centuries beyond slavery itself.
Third, I’ve also heard that this document is a hoax. I look forward to reading the evidence and arguments put forth in that regard. Nonetheless, this book has somewhat permeated the academic and political landscapes, and has been referenced in the arts, becoming something of a force that won’t be going away, much like “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”.
Fourth, especially after reading some other reviews here, lessons can be learned from it. I see it as a prototype, or a template, that has tendrils in other places and times to varying extents. As such, I consider this a recommended read. Keep in mind, the language is disjointed and shocking to us today, and it needs heavy editing. Brace yourself.
First—whether a true document or not—it might truly be the most disgusting read I’ve ever undertaken, and that includes horrendous, gut-wrenching accounts regarding Native Americans, Jews during the Holocaust, and the Rape of Nanking.
Second, I can understand why this has become an influential and oft-cited document. Lynch’s systematic approach toward “breaking” and unbalancing slaves is Mengele-ian. Lynch’s approaches have seemed to echo down through the centuries beyond slavery itself.
Third, I’ve also heard that this document is a hoax. I look forward to reading the evidence and arguments put forth in that regard. Nonetheless, this book has somewhat permeated the academic and political landscapes, and has been referenced in the arts, becoming something of a force that won’t be going away, much like “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”.
Fourth, especially after reading some other reviews here, lessons can be learned from it. I see it as a prototype, or a template, that has tendrils in other places and times to varying extents. As such, I consider this a recommended read. Keep in mind, the language is disjointed and shocking to us today, and it needs heavy editing. Brace yourself.