the future system of world economy. And all progressive social trends
indicate that that system will be based on the principle of labor for
communal instead of private profit. I have no idea how the new system
will finally work out. I have never believed in the infallibility
of the social prophets, even though some of their predictions and
calculations have come true. It is possible that in some countries some
of the captains of capitalist industry might become labor leaders and
prove themselves more efficient than many reactionary labor leaders.
Who knows?
Anyway, it seems to me that if Negroes were organized as a group and as
workers, whatever work they are doing (with or without the whites), and
were thus getting a practical education in the nature and the meaning
of the labor movement, it might even be more important and worthwhile
than for them to become members of radical political parties.
A West Indian charlatan came to this country, full of antiquated social
ideas; yet within a decade he aroused the social consciousness of the
Negro masses more than any leader ever did. When Negroes really desire
a new group orientation they will create it.
Such is my opinion for all that it may be worth. I suppose I have a
poet's right to imagine a great modern Negro leader. At least I would
like to celebrate him in a monument of verse. For I have nothing to
give but my singing. All my life I have been a troubadour wanderer,
nourishing myself mainly on the poetry of existence. And all I offer
here is the distilled poetry of my experience.
BOOKS BY CLAUDE McKAY
Songs of Jamaica
Spring in New Hampshire
Harlem Shadows
Home to Harlem
Banjo
Gingertown
Banana Bottom
A Long Way from Home