The Complete Poems of Paul Laurence Dunbar

The unique aspect of this work lies in its recognition of Paul Dunbar as a groundbreaking figure in American literature, being the first man of pure African descent to express the African American experience through poetry. Critics, including W. D. Howells, noted Dunbar's innate literary distinction, highlighting his ability to capture the essence of negro life in a way that surpassed his predecessors, who were often influenced by mixed heritage. This acknowledgment marks a significant moment in the evolution of African American literary expression.