“It is sometimes said that Dr DuBois is bitter. If this new book of his is bitter, I do not know what bitter means. It is to me one of the sweetest books I have ever read. Dr DuBois is an artist, and his book must be reckoned among those that add not only to the wisdom but to the exaltation and glory of man. Because he is an artist, because he tells this story of his own people so simply and so charmingly, he establishes that kinship which is the essence of everything human.” F. H.
+ − New Repub 22:189 Ap 7 ’20 1300w
“There is a certain weakness in Professor DuBois’s reasoning, which is that his intense concentration on one subject leads him to turn general, universal wrongs into special negro wrongs. The error runs all through his book and disfigures it. If we disagree with much in this beautiful book, it is not possible to withhold the heartiest praise for the power of its statement, the force and passion that inspire it, and the entrancing style in which it is written.”
+ − N Y Times p19 Ag 8 ’20 2000w
“Dr DuBois is too close to the struggle to see clearly the problems involved. His work is a creation of passion rather than intelligence. It is, on the whole, a volume which will convince only those already convinced of the justice and soundness of his position.”
− + Outlook 126:690 D 15 ’20 150w
“‘Darkwater’ is not merely the story of the negro. The success of Dr DuBois’ writing lies in the fact that it describes something universal. Every other persecuted race quickens with tragic memories at his words. Here is the story of the circumscribed Jew, of the Hindu, of the dark peoples whom imperialism holds in subjection. It is the old story of the undeserved human suffering, doled out by the world’s victors who enjoy the cruel display of their power.” M. W. Ovington
+ Socialist R 8:381 My ’20 700w
“Very able and pathetic book.”
+ − Spec 124:245 Ag 21 ’20 280w