At the recent Essence Festival of Culture, an enlightening panel titled Beyond Tomorrow delved into the expansive realms of futuristic fiction through the lens of Black authors. The discussion featured prominent writers Evan Winter, Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah, and H.D. Hunter, moderated by Shyheim Williams.
Evan Winter: Confronting imperialism and social hierarchies
In his latest novel, The Rage of Dragons, Evan Winter uses the frustrations and angers of his protagonist to explore themes of imperialism and social caste systems. Winter questions how we move beyond the idea of explicit or implicit caste systems, highlighting the human condition in the face of societal structures.
H.D. Hunter: Inspiring youth through sci-fi
H.D. Hunter, who began his journey as a camp counselor, channels his experiences into his writing to inspire young readers. His latest work, Futureland: Battle for the Park, features a narrative centered around a traveling amusement park, weaving in themes of technology and family.
Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah: Addressing systemic violence
In Chain-Gang All-Stars, Adjei-Brenyah tackles the harsh realities of mass incarceration and systemic violence. His narrative discusses how oppressive systems can either foster competition or cultivate compassion among those affected.
The panel collectively highlighted the power of imagination to challenge and redefine the boundaries of societal norms and expectations.
