Four decades of essays illuminate the ideas and influence of this poet, lecturer, publisher, and founder of numerous writing programs to train black writers. Outspoken about the need to identify and strengthen a uniquely black literary tradition in America, these essays trace the author's ideas from the early ""From Pan to Planet"" to his most recent book of essays, ""Tough Notes: A Healing Call For Creating Exceptional Black Men,"" The collection mixes the most well-known essays with shorter jottings that provide historical context and revive conversations on empowerment and self-examination that are still fresh and relevant today.