Soul Folk, Unzipped : The Intersection of Black Studies and Contemporary Erotica

Abstract

This thesis explores the ways in which select pieces of contemporary Black erotic literature may be used to gain a deeper understanding of the role of sexuality and intimacy within Black communities around the world. The best selections of well-written erotica celebrate not only the inherent beauty of the human body, but also the joy of lovemaking and even life itself - an indulgence historically denied many Black communities throughout the world, whose literati may have felt pressured to retain a certain textual austerity in order to combat generations of pervasive stereotypes of Black individuals as violent, hyperlibidinous, or animalistic, particularly in regions impacted by colonialism. Yet sensuality and sexuality have been prominent themes throughout much of Black artistic culture, serving as the heartfelt undercurrents in many forms of music and art. This thesis aims to review the way that the written word goes one step further to create an innovative space for the assertion of styles of intimate expression, forms of beauty, and even sociopolitical resistance which are unique to individuals of African descent and clearly worthy of fresh consideration.