J.W. Johnson

According to the text Johnson spent some time writing songs and composing lyrics. I can clearly see his appreciation for music in “O Black and Unknown Bards.” In this poem, he really admires the ability of African Americans to create such beautiful lyrics, despite their hardships during slavery. These men and women were never credited for their music. “O black slave singers, gone, forgot, unfamed…” These men and women could still hold onto their faith despite being taken advantage of and held captive for so long. Johnson admires their faith and hope.

Johnson’s tone seems more optimistic than that of his peers (i.e. McKay). And he later wrote a book, “Negro Americans, What Now? (1934), a book that argued for the merits of racial integration and cooperation.” (http://www.english.illinois.edu/Maps/poets/g_l/johnson/life.htm). But, I think this contrasts the message he sends in “The White Witch.” This poem conveys anger toward a white woman that is portrayed as temptress who “snares” and “preys upon” young black men. There seem to be many different aspects to Johnson’s poetry. Similarly, the text notes: “Johnson’s work and multiple careers defy easy characterization” (31).