The Devil Finds Work: An Essay (Vintage International)

In "The Devil Finds Work: An Essay," James Baldwin, hailed as "the best essayist in this country" by The New York Times Book Review, delves into the portrayal of racism in American cinema, exposing how films have both reflected and shaped public perceptions of racial justice. Published on September 13, 2011, this book-length essay critiques notable films such as "In the Heat of the Night," "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner," and "The Exorcist," revealing the biases and self-deceptions embedded in the American psyche. Baldwin's piercing analysis serves not only as a reflection on film but also as a broader critique of American racial politics. His eloquent prose and incisive observations make this work essential reading for college students studying social justice, film, or American history. Baldwin's essay challenges readers to reconsider the cultural narratives that influence societal attitudes towards race and equality.