We Wear the Mask
It hides our cheeks and shades our…
Paul Laurence Dunbar (June 27, 1872 – February 9, 1906) was an influential American poet, novelist, and playwright famed for his incisive exploration of African American life. Born in Dayton, Ohio, to parents who had been enslaved, Dunbar exhibited literary talent from an early age, composing his first poems while still in school. His work gained national recognition with the 1893 publication of "Oak and Ivy," enabling him to tour and give readings.
Dunbar's writing encompassed various forms, including dialect poetry and standard English works, showcasing his versatility. His 1896 collection, "Lyrics of Lowly Life," with an introduction by William Dean Howells, brought widespread acclaim and secured his place in American literature. Additionally, Dunbar wrote four novels and several collections of short stories, addressing themes of racial discrimination, social injustice, and the African American experience.
Despite struggling with ill health, exacerbated by tuberculosis, Dunbar continued to produce poignant and resonant works until his death at the age of 33. Today, he is remembered as one of the first African American writers to achieve national prominence, paving the way for future generations of Black writers and leaving an indelible mark on American letters.