John A. Williams, a prolific novelist, journalist, essayist, anthologist and editor, will read and discuss his work at the University of Rochester at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 12, in the Gamble Room of Rush Rhees Library on the River Campus.
Williams, arguably the finest African-American novelist of his generation, has written such novels as Clifford's Blues, Jacob's Ladder, and The Man Who Cried I Am. In addition, Night Song was made into a film starring Dick Gregory, and The Junior Bachelor Society was adapted by NBC for a television miniseries titled The Sophisticated Gents. His work, whether fiction or nonfiction, focuses on the Black experience in America, but within the larger context of the American experience.
Williams has also edited or co-edited 10 more books, published a volume of poetry, written two plays and the libretto for the opera Vanqui, which premiered in October 1999 was followed by several additional performances. He is presently completing additional operatic works.
Williams has taught at numerous colleges and universities including New York University, Bard College, Boston University, and Rutgers University, where he was the Paul Robeson Professor of English and Journalism.
This event is part of the English department's Colloquium Series. For more information, call (585) 275-4092.