“The Black Monolith” - Book Review
By Sarah Patterson
The Black Monolith written by Branden L. Patterson, a local Western New Yorker, has just been released and is available for purchase on Amazon. It is deep look at monoliths. Are Black people a group of people who are the for the most part the same? Should we be expected to move as one? While using data to drive his examination of the concept of a Black monolith, Patterson dives into the concept of Black people as a monolith. He examines issues that challenge cultural constancy and communities when creating stability and success. Patterson looks into what makes a successful group of people. He examines spirituality, family, and education. Patterson found those aspects of culture important to examine in his text, The Black Monolith.
Branden L. Patterson (left) his elder brother William K. Patterson II (right)
When reflecting on a quote from then presidential candidate, Joe Biden’s statement, “If you don’t vote for me, you ain’t Black”. Branden L. Patterson stated, “The presidential race in 2020 was arguably one of the most contentious, in terms of popular and social media portrayal. Friendships were ended, careers were launched and derailed, all over opposing political views. In my attempt to remain politically neutral (until later on) I can honestly say the assumption that we are a monolith by then presidential candidate Biden, left me confused.”
He further explains that, “The Black Monolith is a journey into the realm of fact vs opinion and how to tell the two apart.” Patterson expands that the Black Monolith is, “A message to ALL of AMERICA about "BLACK" AMERICA. It is an unapologetic lens into how history and the current political climate has altered how Black Americans view themselves and their families.”
When asked what he hopes to gain from writing this book Patterson explains, “It is my hope that this book may serve as a guide to understanding the state of our country as it were and is, for not only Black America but the country as a whole. For as one group goes, so do we all, and it would serve us well to remember this sentiment.”
After reading the manuscript, Denise Meriweather Clark states, “Upon the arrival of the enslaved Africans to the New World, a single pseudo identity was imposed. Thus, The Black Monolith exposes the absurdity of the classification of groups of individuals from different parts of a continent, rich in a variety of traditions and expertise! The acknowledgement of the differences among black communities will generate conversations based on preferences as they relate to cultural, ethnic, or generational factors. Mr. Patterson’s promotion of the concept of black individuality allows for the acceptance of self-determination based on an identity that is not defined by others.”
One may ask, what genre does The Black Monolith fall into or does one classify it? The answer is that it crosses into philosophy, social science, political science, historical nonfiction and one could argue aspects of math when analyzing the data provided in the many charts within the book. The book is an examination of the crucial impacts on our daily lives. Patterson addresses fundamental questions about the world, reality and human existence. He asks and answers questions about the reality we believe we live in and that which we actually live in. Patterson uses data to drive the discussion and clarify the reality we may not be seeing. In The Black Monolith, he discusses social relationships along with economics and politics. He uses the true accounts of Great Brittan. The Black Monolith will cause you to take an extra pause prior to making decisions, because it addresses many aspects of our lives.
As a side note, Branden L. Patterson has many passions, art is one among them. He has had his art displayed in the Brooklyn Museum located in Brooklyn, NY, when he was much younger. When you purchase the book, you are getting a sample of his art. He is the creator of the cover to his debut book, The Black Monolith. The abstract acrylic on black canvas works well with the concept of the book. He realized it spoke to his text. He decided to use it as the cover.
The Black Monolith, by Branden L. Patterson, is a phenomenal book and one which you will be compelled to continue reading to the end.