The Fire This Time

James Baldwin is a significant and ever-present influence on The Fire This Time. Not only is the title a direct reference to his own text, but Baldwin’s words and works appear in many different essays. How does The Fire This Time work in conversation with Baldwin’s own ideas? Consider these points as you reflect on the text to answer the question.

• In what ways do Baldwin’s ideas inform the essays and in what ways do the essays expand beyond Baldwin’s thoughts?
• How does the presence of James Baldwin’s works and ideas help in developing the text’s main themes of Remembrance and Recognition, Grief: A Private Pain, A Public Protest, and Finding Hope in Heritage?

Teaching Suggestion: As a starting point for preparation for the discussion, it may be useful to help the class brainstorm a list of the essays that allude to Baldwin’s life or works. Students also might revisit the Short Activity for ideas and information. Additionally, Baldwin’s essay “My Dungeon Shook” may serve as a beneficial  supplemental text for this discussion.

Differentiation Suggestion: For students who benefit from support in organizing their thoughts and processing information, consider providing students with a labeled chart with space to record their thoughts prior to the discussion as well as space to record their peers’ thoughts shared during the discussion.