The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man

The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man is a novel written by James Weldon Johnson in 1912.

Written as an autobiography, this historical fiction explores the story of a young African-American boy living in early 20th century America. The young man has a difficult decision to make: to continue to pass for white or to become part of the African-American community.

The novel brilliantly depicts the social and political climate of those decades and a deep insight into the concept of race and identity and the racial struggles and challenges in American society.

Reading The Autobiography of an Ex-Colored Man is really important to deepen the understanding of the African American experience and its history of conquering social rights.

"I know that in writing the following pages I am divulging the great secret of my life, the secret which for some years I have guarded far more carefully than any of my earthly possessions; and it is a curious study to me to analyze the motives which prompt me to do it. I feel that I am led by the same impulse which forces the un-found-out criminal to take somebody into his confidence, although he knows that the act is likely, even almost certain, to lead to his undoing".