Picture a poet weaving hip-hop, heartache, and Black joy into words that hit like a perfect mixtape—meet Hanif Abdurraqib! Born in Columbus, Ohio, this MacArthur 'Genius' has become a literary star, blending poetry, essays, and cultural criticism to explore race, identity, and the pulse of pop culture. His work feels like a late-night chat with a friend who gets it, making him a must-read voice of our time.
The Making of Hanif Abdurraqib
Hanif Abdurraqib was born in 1983 on Columbus’s East Side, raised in a Muslim household. Losing his mother at 13 to an illness shaped his raw, reflective style. Without a formal MFA, he honed his craft at open mics, soaking up the city’s vibrant poetry scene. His love for music—punk, hip-hop, jazz—sparked a unique lens, turning personal grief and cultural history into art.
Hanif Abdurraqib’s Unforgettable Stories
Abdurraqib’s debut poetry collection, The Crown Ain’t Worth Much (2016), sets Columbus as a vivid backdrop, tackling Black life and loss with unflinching honesty. Critics called it 'elegiac' and 'undeniable,' earning a Pushcart Prize nod. His 2017 essay collection, They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us, mixes music critique with memoir, from mosh pits to Michael Brown’s memorial, landing on NPR’s Best Books list. Go Ahead in the Rain: Notes to A Tribe Called Quest (2019) is a love letter to the hip-hop group, blending biography and personal stories, hitting the New York Times bestseller list. His 2021 book, A Little Devil in America, celebrates Black performance, winning the Andrew Carnegie Medal. Abdurraqib’s style—lyrical, intimate, and socially sharp—makes every page feel alive.
Why Hanif Abdurraqib Matters
Abdurraqib’s work reshapes cultural criticism, merging fandom with deep social insight. His 2021 MacArthur Fellowship cements his influence, honoring his ability to make readers feel seen. From poetry slams to global stages, he uplifts Black voices and redefines storytelling. In Columbus, he’s a community anchor, quietly supporting local artists, proving art can heal and connect.
- Born: 1983, Columbus, Ohio
- Key Works: The Crown Ain’t Worth Much, They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us, Go Ahead in the Rain, A Little Devil in America
- Awards: MacArthur Fellowship (2021), Andrew Carnegie Medal (2022)
Ready to vibe with Hanif Abdurraqib’s soulful words? Grab They Can’t Kill Us Until They Kill Us and dive into his world of poetry and prose!