Ep 5. Young, Gifted and Black

In the fifth episode of season 3 of National Geographic's Genius, titled "Young, Gifted and Black," we delve into the life and work of prolific author and activist James Baldwin. The episode focuses on Baldwin's early years in Harlem and his struggle to find his own voice amidst the racism and prejudice of the time.

We see Baldwin as a young man, fresh out of high school, navigating the streets of Harlem and trying to make a name for himself as a writer. Despite his talent, Baldwin struggled to gain recognition in the predominantly white publishing industry, and faced repeated rejection. Nevertheless, he persevered, refusing to compromise his art or his principles, and ultimately became one of the most influential writers and thinkers of the 20th century.

The episode charts Baldwin's evolution as a writer and thinker, from his early days as a copywriter for the railroad industry to his breakthrough as a novelist with his debut, Go Tell It on the Mountain, which drew on his upbringing in the Pentecostal church to explore themes of race, family, and spirituality. We also see Baldwin's emergence as a public intellectual, as he began to speak out on issues of racial inequality and social justice, and to call out the hypocrisy and bigotry of mainstream American society.

Throughout the episode, we hear from scholars and experts on Baldwin's work, including Cornel West, who describes Baldwin's writing as a form of "prophetic witness" that challenged readers to confront their own complicity in oppression and injustice. We also hear from Baldwin's contemporaries and friends, such as Angela Davis and Maya Angelou, who reflect on Baldwin's impact both as a writer and as an activist.

One of the episode's most powerful moments comes when we hear Baldwin in his own words, as we see footage of him speaking at Cambridge University in the 1960s. In his trademark style, Baldwin lays bare the realities of racism and poverty in America, and challenges his audience to recognize their own role in perpetuating these injustices. It's a stirring reminder of the power of words and ideas to effect change, and a testament to Baldwin's enduring legacy.

Overall, "Young, Gifted and Black" is a moving and insightful look at James Baldwin and his work, offering a nuanced portrait of a complex and brilliant artist. Whether you're familiar with Baldwin's writing or new to his work, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersections of race, literature, and social justice.