Race and Identity in Attica Locke’s Black Water Rising (2010)

Introduction:
Black Water Rising by Attica Locke (2010) is a tightly woven mystery that delves into issues of race, identity, and social justice in Houston, Texas, during the 1980s. The novel centers on Jay Porter, a lawyer who is trying to distance himself from his past but is forced back into the fight for justice when he becomes involved in a case that threatens both his career and his life. The book is as much a commentary on social issues as it is a gripping mystery.

Themes and What We Learn:

• Race and Social Justice: The novel highlights the racial tensions and inequality that permeated American society during the 1980s. For literature students, this serves as a case study in how fiction can explore historical and contemporary racial dynamics.

• Personal Identity and the Past: Jay’s struggle to reconcile his past and his present is central to the story. Literature students can explore how Locke uses the character’s internal conflict to discuss themes of identity and self-acceptance.

• The Role of the Law in Society: The novel’s legal themes prompt discussion on the role of law in addressing or perpetuating social injustice. Students can analyze Locke’s critique of the legal system and its impact on marginalized communities.

What We Learn:
Attica Locke’s Black Water Rising provides literature students with a deep understanding of how race, identity, and social justice can be woven into a compelling narrative. The book offers rich material for studying how authors use crime fiction to address larger societal issues.