Imani Perry Explores Black Identity Through the Color Blue in New Book

In 'Black in Blues,' Perry blends memoir, history, and culture to examine the deep connections between Blackness and the color blue.

Imani Perry's new book, 'Black in Blues,' uses 35 chapters to explore the multifaceted significance of the color blue in Black culture and history.
The book combines elements of memoir, history, sociology, and art, reflecting Perry's interdisciplinary expertise in race, law, and African American studies.
Perry connects blue to themes of beauty, resilience, and struggle, drawing on personal experiences and historical narratives, including the legacy of indigo cloth in Africa and the blues genre of music.
The author emphasizes the cultural and emotional resonance of blue, describing its enduring appeal across different contexts, from aesthetics to commerce.
As a MacArthur 'genius' grant recipient and acclaimed author, Perry offers a deeply personal yet expansive perspective, showcasing the global and personal dimensions of the color blue.