unknown
March 24, 2026
Minor Black Figures by Brandon Taylor review
This novel is stacked with ideas about Black art and aesthetics – but its language is too clumsy and academic to bring them to life
TL;DR
- The novel "Minor Black Figures" by Brandon Taylor explores ideas about Black art and aesthetics.
- The protagonist, Wyeth, is a young painter who struggles with his identity and artistic direction.
- The book is criticized for its language, described as clumsy and academic, which hinders the effective presentation of its themes.
- Wyeth's thoughts on "diasporic grifters" and the commercialization of Black identity in art are highlighted.
- The narrative also touches upon Wyeth's personal life, including a tentative relationship with a former priest named Keating.
- Despite its conceptual depth, the novel's execution, particularly its prose and character development, is found wanting.