The Black Aesthetic

The Encyclopedia defines the black aesthetic as "a period of artistic and literary development among Black Americans in the the 1960s and early '70s." The literature in this time period was thought to tackle racial tension, African culture, and other issues.
Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man" is a perfect example. The main character whose name is unknown, has an overwhelming desire to deliver a speech to a crowd littered with angry, discriminatory white men. This, in itself, is a noble task. During the time period in which this piece of literature was written, slavery was abolished, but black people still did not withhold the same rights that white Americans were privileged. If put in the same situation, I am not sure I would have the courage to stand up in front of a group that had a predisposition of hatred for me.
This story was unbelievably painful to read. It reflects the villainous portion of human nature so vividly. I cannot say that this story directly relates to my life for I could even begin to imagine the experience the plight of a black man during this time. However, the empathy I felt while reading this was smothering to say the least.
My favorite portion was when he was finally awarded the opportunity to give his speech. The main character had endured hell just to have the opportunity to speak to a crowd who disdained him. Once given the opportunity, he had a mouth full of blood. And instead of relieving himself in one of the buckets, he swallowed as if to say "I can take whatever you deal me with dignity".
After reading this, I would like to study the black aesthetic more extensively. I have read a few biographies describing similar experiences. But I feel a desire to delve deeper into this topic.
When I first read "Invisible Man", I was unaware of how layered the excerpt was. It amazes me how Ellison was able to pen, what on the surface appears to be a simplistic story, but in reality, is a tale that takes thought and discussion to truly grasp.
I was surprised to learn that this was considered a "safe" work. I presume it could have been more brash, but to me, it showed a side of white culture that many, to this day, still choose to ignore.
I would recommend "Invisible Man" to everyone. It is vital to know the history of our culture in order to understand the present.