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Lawrence Burney's recent book, No Sense in Wishing, merges the personal with the societal in a memoir that serves as a tribute to his hometown. This publication delves into the creative and cultural forces that formed his journey, intertwining collectively themes of kinship, fatherhood, and systemic challenges.

The Politicized View on the City

Burney points out that the city has long been politicized and racialized. Burney reflects on his early writings on police brutality, prompted by the Freddie Gray incident and his own household experiences. Over time, his approach evolved to a more contextual viewpoint, analyzing the city's history of division and discriminatory housing policies.

The city has arguably the worst public relations of every urban center in the United States.

Burney contends that despite societal ills, the urban reputation is often distorted by news reporting. Great creative work and music emerge from Baltimore, yet these contributions often remain overlooked by mainstream viewers.

Elevating Community Artists

Through his zine True Laurels, Burney aimed to showcase local talents frequently ignored by larger media. A significant story centered on a rapper named the artist, who faced reportedly law enforcement targeting. During Burney's reporting, the cops implicated were indicted with federal offenses, exposing deep-rooted misconduct.

• This case exemplified anti-Black and anti-poor policing.
• He emphasized that different African American communities experience the identical level of policing.

Affective Range and Intimate Insight

The book balances devastating moments with lighthearted ones, reflecting the complex essence of life. Burney concentrated on eliciting affective responses in the audience, arguing that emotion outweighs technical skill in cultural production.

He shared how artists like the rapper deeply influenced his life, challenging perceptions of masculinity and identity.

Vulnerability and Personal Growth

Reflecting about private topics—such as attending church, childcare, and being a parent—required considerable vulnerability. Burney admitted that discussing his role as a parent and the choice to follow a career chance in a different location was particularly difficult.

Talking about these feelings wasn't simple. The essay likely required me three months to even produce a initial version.

International Connections

This book also covers Burney's journeys to Johannesburg and Lagos, drawing connections between Baltimore and different global urban centers. The author suggests that the city serves as a small-scale representation of wider social issues, including economic tension and racial division.

Ultimately, Burney offers Baltimore as a primer to understanding complex social systems not only in America, but throughout the western world.