Book Review #8-The Autobiography of Malcolm X
Malcolm X- Pioneer. Revolutionary. Activist- He was a magnetic leader of the Afro-American Civil Rights Movement. No words or reviews are enough to express admiration for this powerful autobiography. It showcases his psychological and spiritual crisis which he channelized into something far greater than himself. His sincere willingness to fight racism in society altered much of American history.
Malcolm’s brutal honesty and an unmistakable agitation towards the inherent racial prejudice during his formative years is agonizing. He records his journey with precision- from childhood, then an adulthood consisting of crime and drugs. His time in prison is a reconstruction of his everything he once stood for, or what he aimed for. From crime and delinquency to an unavoidable, crucial face of the Black Revolution- this story deserves much attention to truly understand the endeavors to eradicate racism from the fabric of American society.
A most memorable quote from this book depicts Malcolm’s profound realization of how far he had come. He says, “In fact, once he is motivated no one can change more completely than the man who has been at the bottom. I call myself the best example of that.” (p. 266)
Here are a few excerpts from the book, consisting of the transformative last years of Malcolm X’s life (when he returned from Mecca) as well as his encapsulation of the true definition of love and marriage- which I found truly worthwhile:
Malcolm X asserts that he would not live long enough to witness this book’s publication and release. He was right. On 21st February, 1965 he was assasinated. Malcolm X writes, “ I know that societies often have killed the people who have helped to change those societies. And if I can die having brought any light, having exposed any meaningful truth that will help to destroy the racist cancer that is malignant in the body of America-then, all of the credit is due to Allah. Only the mistakes have been mine.” (p. 389)
The book was completed with an epilogue by world-renowned writer Alex Haley. Brilliantly written, potent and intense- this book stayed with me long after I had wrapped it up. Truly an important read for me this year.
