Welcome to our online companion for careful readers and teachers of Yusef Komunyakaa’s work. You will find reviews and analysis of his book Testiomony, interviews with Komunyakaa, as well as other writings that clarify his poetics and politics. Komunyakaa provides a reading list of works that inspired the text or may help to illuminate it in new ways, as well as classroom resources to assist in the teaching of his book.
The centerpiece of this volume is the libretto “Testimony.” Paying homage to Charlie Parker, “Testimony” was commissioned for a radio drama with original music by eminent Australian composer and saxophonist Sandy Evans. Remarkably rich and evocative, encompassing a wide range of musical energy and performers, this moving affirmation of Parker’s genius became a milestone in contemporary radio theater. A total of twenty-eight poems spanning the breadth of Komunyakaa’s career are included, including two never previously published.
To order a copy of Testimony, visit the book page, here.
If you have any questions or experience problems with our site, please contact selliott@wesleyan.edu
