**From one of the most brilliant writers and thinkers of the twentieth century comes a collection of passionate, probing, controversial essays ( *The Atlantic* ) on topics ranging from race relations in the United States to the role of the writer in society. ** Told with Baldwin’s characteristically unflinching honesty, this “splendid book” ( *The New York Times* ) offers illuminating, deeply felt essays along with personal accounts of Richard Wright, Norman Mailer and other writers. “James Baldwin is a skillful writer, a man of fine intelligence and a true companion in the desire to make life human. To take a cue from his title, we had better learn his name.” — *The New York Times*