Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine (2014) – A Review

Claudia Rankine’s Citizen: An American Lyric is a powerful exploration of race, identity, and the pervasive reality of racism in contemporary America. Through a combination of poetry, prose, and visual art, Rankine confronts the everyday experiences of racial microaggressions, systemic injustice, and the emotional toll that racism inflicts on both individuals and society. This innovative work is not only a poetic reflection but a profound commentary on the social and political landscape of America.

The Personal and Collective Experience of Racism

At the heart of Citizen is Rankine’s portrayal of the personal and collective experience of racism. The book explores the cumulative effects of racism on individuals—particularly African Americans—whose experiences are shaped by the subtle and overt ways in which racism manifests in everyday interactions. Rankine examines the emotional weight of being constantly reminded of one’s racial identity in a society where systemic racism shapes access to power, opportunity, and justice.

Through a series of personal narratives and reflections, Rankine offers a nuanced look at how individuals confront racial prejudice, whether through direct confrontation or through the emotional labor of enduring microaggressions. She also explores the psychological effects of being caught in a cycle of racial trauma, illustrating how racism is not only a political and social problem but also an emotional burden that individuals must navigate daily.

The Role of Art and Memory in Shaping Social Change

Citizen incorporates visual art and multimedia elements, blurring the lines between genres and offering a multifaceted exploration of race. Rankine’s innovative approach emphasizes the power of art and memory in understanding the dynamics of racism. The book includes images of well-known incidents of racial violence, as well as references to figures like Serena Williams, whose experiences with racism and sexism are intertwined throughout the text.

Through the use of art and historical references, Rankine reminds readers of the importance of memory in the fight for social change. By highlighting the collective memory of racial injustice, Rankine invites readers to consider how past traumas continue to shape present-day realities. Her work serves as both a reflection on the persistence of racism and a call to action to confront and dismantle these systems of oppression.

Themes of Identity, Citizenship, and Belonging

Rankine also explores the concept of citizenship and belonging in a society that marginalizes certain groups. In Citizen, the question of who gets to be fully recognized as a citizen—who belongs and who is excluded—is central. Rankine examines how racism erodes the sense of belonging, creating a divide between individuals who are seen as “other” and those who hold societal power. She underscores how racial discrimination forces individuals to constantly negotiate their identities in a society that does not fully accept them.

This theme is explored through Rankine’s reflections on race as an internal and external experience—how identity is shaped both by how one sees oneself and by how others perceive and treat them. The work challenges readers to rethink what it means to be a citizen in a country that has historically excluded marginalized communities from full participation in society.

Conclusion: A Haunting and Urgent Call for Racial Justice

In conclusion, Citizen: An American Lyric is a haunting and urgent work that demands reflection on the state of race and racism in America. Claudia Rankine’s innovative use of poetry, prose, and visual art captures the emotional and psychological complexities of racial identity, while also highlighting the need for social change. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the lived experience of racism and its ongoing impact on society.