Assata an autobiography analysis of poems

This is the second in a continuing series examining the poetry of Black revolutionary and political exile, Assata Shakur. It is the fourth essay in Red Wedge examining the literary and political significance of Shakur’s influential autobiography Assata. Previous parts of the series can be found here and here and, most recently, here.

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“To My People”

Alongside the poems that interrupt, enrich, and prompt us to reflect on her autobiographical narrative, Assata Shakur also includes in her text a number of less lyrical writing samples, including speeches she reads at trial to contest her accusers, and political statements that she issues from prison.

Even behind walls and in chains, her voice continues to resonate, as it resonates still today, from exile in Cuba.

Addressed to “Black brothers, Black sisters,” Shakur’s statement from prison “To My People” makes clear that while her project is anchored in