The Narrative of Lunsford Lane, Formerly of Raleigh, N.C. By: Lunsford Lane (1803-)
In his powerful autobiography, The Narrative of Lunsford Lane, Formerly of Raleigh, N.C., Lunsford Lane provides a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of a formerly enslaved African American living in the antebellum South. His story presents an extraordinary tale of resilience, determination, and triumph over adversity. Lane's narrative begins with a disturbingly detailed account of the horrors of slavery. From the cruel treatment he endured to witnessing the separations of families, his words convey the inhumanity and barbarity inherent in a society built upon the enslavement of others. Lane's ability to vividly describe his experiences allows readers to fully grasp the dehumanizing effects of slavery, leaving an indelible impact. Lane's life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes determined to purchase his freedom. Through immense perseverance and shrewd business acumen, he successfully saves enough money to buy not only his own freedom but also that of his wife and children. His determination to secure their freedom further emphasizes his moral strength and unwavering commitment to his family. Amidst his incredible personal achievements, Lane provides insights into the role of religion and education in his life. His deep faith in God is evident throughout his narrative, serving as a guiding force that sustains him during the most challenging times. Additionally, Lane's unyielding desire for education, despite numerous obstacles, showcases his thirst for knowledge and the transformative power it can yield. Although Lane's narrative focuses primarily on his personal journey, he also sheds light on broader social issues prevalent at the time. From the rampant racism and discrimination he faces in the North to the divisive issue of abolition, Lane exposes the harsh realities of a society struggling with its deeply entrenched racial prejudices. One of the most poignant aspects of Lane's narrative is his ability to inspire hope in the face of immense adversity. Through his own remarkable achievements, he encourages readers to never lose sight of their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face. Lane's story serves as a timeless reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. In conclusion, The Narrative of Lunsford Lane is an essential piece of African American literature that offers a valuable firsthand account of slavery and its aftermath. Lane's eloquent writing style, combined with his extraordinary experiences, leaves a lasting impact on readers, compelling them to reexamine their understanding of history and reflect on the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice. First Page: THE NARRATIVE OF LUNSFORD LANE, FORMERLY OF RALEIGH, N.C. Embracing an account of his early life, the redemption by purchase of himself and family from slavery, And his banishment from the place of his birth for the crime of wearing a colored skin. Published By Himself. Boston: Printed for the Publisher: J. G. Torrey, Printer. 1842 NARRATIVE OF LUNSFORD LANE. [ORIGINAL.] The Slave Mother's Address TO HER INFANT CHILD. I cannot tell how much I love To look on thee, my child; Nor how that looking rocks my soul As on a tempest wild; For I have borne thee to the world, And bid thee breathe its air, But soon to see around thee drawn The curtains of despair. Now thou art happy, child, I know, As little babe can be; Thou dost not fancy in thy dreams But thou art all as free As birds upon the mountain winds, (If thou hast thought of bird,) Or anything thou thinkest of, Or thy young ear has heard. What are thy little thoughts about? I cannot certain know, Only there's not a wing of them Upon a breath of woe, For not a shadow's on thy face, Nor billow heaves thy breast, All clear as any summer's lake With not a zephyr press'd... Continue reading book >>

The Narrative of Lunsford Lane, Formerly of Raleigh, N.C. By: Lunsford Lane (1803-)

In his powerful autobiography, The Narrative of Lunsford Lane, Formerly of Raleigh, N.C., Lunsford Lane provides a rare and intimate glimpse into the life of a formerly enslaved African American living in the antebellum South. His story presents an extraordinary tale of resilience, determination, and triumph over adversity.

Lane's narrative begins with a disturbingly detailed account of the horrors of slavery. From the cruel treatment he endured to witnessing the separations of families, his words convey the inhumanity and barbarity inherent in a society built upon the enslavement of others. Lane's ability to vividly describe his experiences allows readers to fully grasp the dehumanizing effects of slavery, leaving an indelible impact.

Lane's life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes determined to purchase his freedom. Through immense perseverance and shrewd business acumen, he successfully saves enough money to buy not only his own freedom but also that of his wife and children. His determination to secure their freedom further emphasizes his moral strength and unwavering commitment to his family.

Amidst his incredible personal achievements, Lane provides insights into the role of religion and education in his life. His deep faith in God is evident throughout his narrative, serving as a guiding force that sustains him during the most challenging times. Additionally, Lane's unyielding desire for education, despite numerous obstacles, showcases his thirst for knowledge and the transformative power it can yield.

Although Lane's narrative focuses primarily on his personal journey, he also sheds light on broader social issues prevalent at the time. From the rampant racism and discrimination he faces in the North to the divisive issue of abolition, Lane exposes the harsh realities of a society struggling with its deeply entrenched racial prejudices.

One of the most poignant aspects of Lane's narrative is his ability to inspire hope in the face of immense adversity. Through his own remarkable achievements, he encourages readers to never lose sight of their dreams, regardless of the challenges they may face. Lane's story serves as a timeless reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit.

In conclusion, The Narrative of Lunsford Lane is an essential piece of African American literature that offers a valuable firsthand account of slavery and its aftermath. Lane's eloquent writing style, combined with his extraordinary experiences, leaves a lasting impact on readers, compelling them to reexamine their understanding of history and reflect on the ongoing pursuit of equality and justice.

First Page:

THE NARRATIVE OF LUNSFORD LANE, FORMERLY OF RALEIGH, N.C.

Embracing an account of his early life, the redemption by purchase of himself and family from slavery, And his banishment from the place of his birth for the crime of wearing a colored skin.

Published By Himself.

Boston: Printed for the Publisher: J. G. Torrey, Printer.

1842

NARRATIVE OF LUNSFORD LANE.

[ORIGINAL.]

The Slave Mother's Address TO HER INFANT CHILD.

I cannot tell how much I love To look on thee, my child; Nor how that looking rocks my soul As on a tempest wild; For I have borne thee to the world, And bid thee breathe its air, But soon to see around thee drawn The curtains of despair.

Now thou art happy, child, I know, As little babe can be; Thou dost not fancy in thy dreams But thou art all as free As birds upon the mountain winds, (If thou hast thought of bird,) Or anything thou thinkest of, Or thy young ear has heard.

What are thy little thoughts about? I cannot certain know, Only there's not a wing of them Upon a breath of woe, For not a shadow's on thy face, Nor billow heaves thy breast, All clear as any summer's lake With not a zephyr press'd... Continue reading book >>

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