Complete Poems

This anthology features the complete works of Claude McKay, showcasing his evolution as a key figure in modern black poetry and literature.

The Complete Poems is a comprehensive collection that features both published and previously unpublished works of Claude McKay, a trailblazer in modern black literature. Spanning over three hundred poems, this anthology includes nearly one hundred poems that have never been seen before, allowing readers to explore the vast intellectual landscape of McKay's writing. Born in Jamaica, McKay's journey through life was characterized by his passionate commitment to social justice and cultural representation, beginning with his early poems in Jamaican creole that captured the essence of everyday black life.

After moving to New York, McKay became a pivotal figure in the Harlem Renaissance, revitalizing the English sonnet form and penning powerful works such as If We Must Die. His experiences as a traveler and his political beliefs, particularly his engagement with communism, deeply influenced his writing. After years of exploration across Europe and North Africa, he returned to Harlem in 1934, having distanced himself from the ideologies of Stalin’s Soviet Union. This period marked a transition in his poetry from the intense 'violent sonnets' to more personal, confessional lyrics shaped by his embrace of Catholicism.

In this meticulously curated anthology, readers are invited to experience the full spectrum of McKay's poetic evolution. Vividly introduced and annotated by William J. Maxwell, the Complete Poems provides invaluable insights into the life and work of a significant figure in twentieth-century poetry, showcasing how his diverse experiences enriched his literary voice.