Be Inspired To Be A Playwright By August Wilson

Some people make resolutions around New Years.

Some people make vows at weddings and renew them again on their anniversaries.

So, today dear writer I challenge you to make a vow on August Wilson Day. Say it with me: I am a playwright.

Say it with me: I am a playwright.

I know you are scared and nervous. I know your parents told you playwrighting is akin to unemployment (which it may be at least akin to underemployment). But on this day ground yourself in the affirming work of one of the greatest playwrights of all time.

Today August Wilson (actually Frederick August Kittel, Jr.) was born in Pittsburgh, PA. circa 1945 of course. Here is a man who, despite many challenges growing up, created what is now the foundation for black theatrical work. He listened to the world, and the world told him stories. Correction. The world told him OUR stories. And he recorded them for us.

Here is a list of his work which spans over 30 years.

Recycle – 1973

Black Bart and the Sacred Hills – 1977

Fullerton Street – 1980

Jitney – 1982

Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom – 1984

Fences – 1987

Joe Turner’s Come and Gone – 1988

The Homecoming – 1989

The Coldest Day of the Year – 1989

The Piano Lesson – 1990

Two Trains Running – 1991

Seven Guitars – 1995

King Hedley II – 1999

Gem of the Ocean – 2003

How I Learned What I Learned – 2003

Radio Golf – 2005

You must buy all his work, read it, study it. His work will be your bible. The number of actors and writers not to mention fans who have been influenced by him are beyond the pages on this website. But thankfully if you will get a chance to relive some of his greatest work on HBO, as Denzel Washington is producing his more popular work for the small screen.

One fan created an entire slide show of Mr. Wilson’s life and work.

And since you are taking the playwright oath know that there is no better day to be a playwright. And no better source for writing information.

Here is Wilson on writing and creating drama.

Here is Wilson explaining writing about the black experience.

Finally here is a panel of distinguished theater folk including Kenny Leon and Ruben Santiago-Hudson discussing Wilson’s legacy.

So dear writer, claim your place among the great heroes who dare to hear voices and move them onto a stage. You can do this. You can do this because August paved the way. You owe it to him. You owe it to us.