Porgy

by DuBose Heyward

Book Overview

Porgy is a crippled street-beggar in Catfish Row, a black tenement of Charleston, South Carolina. Unwashed and unwanted, he lives just on the edge of subsistence, trusting his fate to the gods and chance. His one shining moment is his pursuit of Bess, whom he wins and then loses during one summer of passion and violence.

The basis for Gershwin's acclaimed folk opera Porgy and Bess, the novel portrays its characters with such sympathy, honesty,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1434105032
• ISBN13: 9781434105035
• Release Date: August 2023
• Publisher: Waking Lion Press
• Length: 120 Pages
• Weight: 0.38 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.0"

Customer Reviews

Porgy - One Facet of Early 20th Century "Negro" Society

Porgy is a classic tale well known to most. I purchased the book with mixed emotions. One part of me was apprehensive about an Anglo-Saxon's interpretation of one "segment" of the black community is the early 1900s. Another part of me wanted to know the full story that has captured the hearts and minds of so many people of various backgrounds, as long as I can remember. Needless to say, I'm very glad I read the book. Given the popularity of this story, I'm not compelled to analyze any aspect of it. I will just suggest that you read it for yourself. The book is short, sweet, and full of life. By the time you get to the end, Porgy and Bess will have softened your heart and made you glad for investing the time. However, be mindful that the book only depicts one segment of the community...by no means does Porgy reflect the experiences and struggles of all, or even most, of Charlestown's early 20th century "Negro" society.

Porgy

Great! It was a tremendous aid in my preparation for a role in Porgy & Bess!