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dimanche 18 septembre 2016

Discovering The History Behind The Harlem Writers Guild

By Donna Brown


While there are actors and writers' guilds in Hollywood, many of these organization also have local branches. One of which is The Harlem Writers Guild (HWG, ) an organization which is also the oldest of its kind in the United States. The HWG originated in 1950 when several authors needed a new space and method of sharing knowledge, ideas and writings.

The group in Harlem began working with new and emerging African-American writers as soon as space became available in the mid-late 1950s. That space, a storefront became available shortly after the disbanding of "The Committee For Negro Arts, " and at the beginning of the Black Arts Movement. Shortly thereafter, due to a loss in funding, the guild became known as being part of the New York mainstream literary movement.

The organization focused on supporting the creation, and publication of literary works by African Americans. In most cases, these were new and emerging artists. Whereas, there were some instances in where more famous authors either are, were or became members. Some of these people include Lonne Elder, III, Turner Wood, Ossie Davis, Paule Marshall, Maya Angelou and Audre Lorde.

The organization found success early on when several members had published over 300 works which included poetry, screenplays, scripts, plays, fiction and non-fiction books, and other writings. All of which took place in a very short period between the mid-1960s and early 1970s. After which, the United Society of Writers honored the guild and associated membership for these outstanding contributions.

Once people could begin working together regardless of issues with mixed-race and mixed-space, publications became more involved in fiction and non-fiction categories. In addition, there was a broader space for those wishing to discuss issues in various periodicals and newspapers. So, while some professors and editors were rather critical in critiquing the writing of black authors, most knew comments were often based as much in racism as towards talent.

Success stories such as Langston Hughes and others popular in the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s often made it difficult for many new and emerging authors. For, while it had always been more difficult for young African-Americans to have material accepted and published, Langston's talents made it difficult for everyone. As a result, publishing houses saw a decline in the number of submissions which resulted in many publications sending out a call for material.

While the writing world has changed drastically since the early days of the guild, there is still an interest in keeping the group together. For, like with the founding and early members, the group still believes it is important to teach students how to write in a manner which can help one get published. As part of the process, these individuals often teach these new and emerging artists the most important aspects of the writing and publication process.

Ultimately, this group has gone through several different formations since the 1920s. Although, the original goal in the early 1920s remains the same. To teach young African-American writers how to develop a voice, style and tone that is captivating to all readers. Whereas, to also support in finding the appropriate periodicals, books and publishers which are often accepting of many different voices.




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