[Unedited] Elizabeth Alexander with Krista Tippett

Spiritual Legacy

Elizabeth Alexander and Krista Tippett explore the spiritual and literary contributions of W.E.B. Du Bois, highlighting his profound impact on spiritual thought and literature. Alexander emphasizes Du Bois' use of "felicitous, careful language" and his patterning of writing after the Bible and the preacher, which is evident in his seminal work, "The Souls of Black Folk" 1. This work is not only a political statement but a poetic reflection on the human condition, transcending racial boundaries 1.

He was talking about the human condition, and absolutely. Not just the human condition of people who are not white.

--- Krista Tippett

Tippett notes that Du Bois' spiritual legacy is often overlooked, yet it remains a vital part of his intellectual contributions 2.

   

Racial Critique

Du Bois' racial and social critique remains relevant, as Elizabeth Alexander and Krista Tippett discuss his views on the color line and its ongoing impact. Alexander recalls her early exposure to Du Bois, recognizing him as a respected figure in African American history and literature 3. His prophetic statement, "the problem of the 20th century is the problem of the color line," is explored as more than a political assertion; it is a profound commentary on the human condition 1.

He understood that as a sole crisis for white people, for black people, and for the polis in general.

--- Elizabeth Alexander

This crisis, as Alexander notes, is about the inability to imagine and empathize with others, a theme that Du Bois articulated with poetic clarity 1.

   

Cultural Influence

Du Bois' influence on cultural identity and his challenge to cultural norms are significant, as Elizabeth Alexander highlights his integration of art and sociology. She notes that Du Bois is a household name among educated Black people, yet his work is often confined to African American studies, limiting its broader impact 4. Alexander argues for the inclusion of Du Bois in the wider American curriculum, emphasizing his role as an integrationist who worked across racial lines to address common societal issues 4.

We stand on the same timeline. We are, in his phrase, coworkers in the kingdom of culture.

--- Elizabeth Alexander

This perspective underscores the importance of recognizing diverse identities and creating a common space for cultural expression 5.