Conversation with Poet and Writer-in-Residence John Murillo

PAYING THE PRICE OF THE TICKET:  THOUGHTS ON THE LIFE AND WORK OF JAMES BALDWIN

Poet and Writer-in-Residence, John Murillo came to the library for an informal talk on poetic inspiration and commitments in relation to author James Baldwin.    Murillo has been inspired by Baldwin’s work and work ethic in his own writing and approach to his career.   Baldwin, who was born in Harlem in 1924, read every book in his public library as a kid.  He had a difficult childhood in a poor family with an abusive step-father.   In his teenage years, Baldwin realized that he was gay, and, after becoming disillusioned with American prejudices against both gays and African Americans, he moved to Paris, France in 1948.    Baldwin was a Visiting Five-College professor from 1983-1986 and died in 1987.

Murillo suggested that everyone should see the documentary film about Baldwin’s life, Price of the Ticket.   After Murillo’s inspiring words, an informal conversation ensued.  The lively discussion among the students, faculty, and visitors in the library late on a rainy Friday afternoon then ranged from talk of a recent exhibit about James Baldwin in the Hampshire College Gallery to a current faculty member’s search of the Hampshire College Archives to unearth all she could about what Baldwin taught during the time he was at Hampshire.    Many thanks to John Murillo and the School of IA for providing us with such a wonderful opportunity for meaningful discussion.