This Strange New Feeling by Julius Lester, published in 1972, isn’t just a historical fiction novel; it’s a vibrant, pulsating heartbeat from the past, resonating with a raw emotional power that feels strikingly contemporary. Lester, a renowned author, civil rights activist, and professor, crafts a narrative steeped in the realities of slavery in the American South, yet it’s the intimate exploration of love and longing within that oppressive system that truly sets this book apart. The novel’s publication during a period of intense social change makes it particularly poignant, highlighting the struggles for freedom and self-determination that continue to echo today. This is not just another story about slavery; it’s a deep dive into the human spirit’s capacity for love and resilience in the face of unimaginable cruelty.

Plot & Setting

Set on a Virginia plantation before the Civil War, This Strange New Feeling centers on two enslaved individuals: Sarah, a young woman struggling to reconcile her budding feelings with the harsh realities of her existence, and Joshua, a rebellious and proud man determined to find his own path, even within the constraints of slavery. The narrative unfolds through their alternating perspectives, revealing the intricacies of their relationship and the internal conflicts they both grapple with. Lester doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of plantation life. We are shown the back-breaking labor, the constant threat of violence, and the dehumanizing treatment that shaped their world. Yet, amidst this darkness, the narrative is filled with moments of profound tenderness and shared humanity, offering a glimmer of hope. The setting is not just a backdrop; it’s a character in itself, influencing every aspect of Sarah and Joshua’s lives and relationships. The heat, the fields, the slave quarters – all come alive under Lester’s pen.

The pacing of the novel is deliberate, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the characters’ emotional landscapes. We see Sarah’s internal struggle as she questions her feelings for Joshua, torn between her desire for connection and the fear of the pain it could bring. We also witness Joshua’s quiet acts of defiance, his determination to maintain his dignity despite the overwhelming odds. This interplay of personal longings and societal pressures creates a narrative that is both heartbreaking and inspiring. The story is not driven by sensational twists but rather by the subtle shifts in emotion, the quiet moments of understanding, and the fierce desire for freedom. The atmosphere is thick with the weight of oppression, yet punctuated with moments of unexpected tenderness. It’s a world that feels both distant and tragically familiar.

Character Analysis

Sarah is a character of quiet strength and deep emotional complexity. We see her navigating a world where her feelings are constantly suppressed. Her internal monologue is filled with questions about love, freedom, and her place in the world. She yearns for something more than the life that has been forced upon her. Her relationship with Joshua is the heart of the story, showing the tenderness that can exist even in the most dehumanizing circumstances. Joshua, on the other hand, is a force of nature. He is rebellious, outspoken, and determined to challenge the system that seeks to control him. He represents the fire that burns beneath the surface, the refusal to accept a life of servitude without question. His pride and his longing for freedom are palpable, making him a compelling and memorable character. Their relationship is not a simple love story, but a complex exploration of two people finding connection in a world designed to tear them apart.

The characters are not defined solely by their status as enslaved people. They are also individuals with their own unique dreams, fears, and desires. We see their internal conflicts, their moments of doubt, and their quiet acts of resistance. Lester masterfully avoids simplistic portrayals of either heroes or villains, offering instead a nuanced understanding of human nature within a morally compromised system. The secondary characters, while not as deeply explored, serve to illuminate the various facets of the slave community, highlighting the diversity of experiences within the shared struggle. Each character contributes to the rich tapestry of the narrative, providing a glimpse into the lives of those who have been too often overlooked or simplified in historical accounts. Purchase the book here

Themes & Emotional Impact

This Strange New Feeling explores profound themes of love, resilience, and the enduring human spirit in the face of oppression. The novel’s central motif is the paradox of love flourishing within a system designed to dehumanize. It asks us to consider how individuals can maintain their dignity and find moments of joy even under the most brutal circumstances. Lester masterfully juxtaposes the harsh realities of slavery with the tender moments of connection between Sarah and Joshua, revealing the complexities of their relationship. The book isn’t just about surviving; it’s about living, loving, and finding meaning in the face of adversity. The theme of freedom, both physical and emotional, is also central to the story. Joshua’s unwavering desire for liberation resonates throughout the narrative. His refusal to be broken by the system embodies the hope for a better future.

The book is emotionally charged, evoking a range of feelings from sadness and anger to hope and tenderness. Reading this book was a visceral experience, pulling me into the lives of Sarah and Joshua and making me feel their pain, their longing, and their quiet acts of defiance. The author’s use of vivid imagery and powerful prose creates a world that feels both real and intimate. One particular scene, where Sarah and Joshua share a moment of quiet intimacy under the moonlight, struck me deeply, reminding me of the profound human need for connection, regardless of the circumstances. It was a reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can find solace and hope. I was moved by the characters’ vulnerability, their courage, and their refusal to be defined by their circumstances. Check availability on Amazon.

Writing Style & Narrative Techniques

Lester’s prose is both lyrical and direct, capturing the beauty and the brutality of the world he depicts. He employs a dual narrative structure, allowing readers to experience the story through both Sarah and Joshua’s perspectives. This technique creates a richer understanding of their internal struggles and the dynamics of their relationship. The dialogue is authentic and engaging, bringing the characters to life with their unique voices and mannerisms. Lester masterfully uses symbolism and imagery to enhance the emotional impact of the story. The recurring motif of birds, for instance, represents the longing for freedom and the desire to escape the confines of slavery. The descriptions of the natural world, juxtaposed with the harsh realities of plantation life, create a powerful contrast that highlights the beauty and the tragedy of the setting. The pacing is carefully managed, allowing for moments of quiet reflection alongside the more dramatic events.

The author’s voice is present throughout the narrative, guiding readers through the complexities of the story while maintaining an objective tone. He avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the human drama and the quiet acts of resilience that are at the heart of the novel. His background as a civil rights activist adds a layer of authenticity and depth to the narrative, grounding the fictional story in the historical realities of slavery. The use of language is both powerful and evocative, capturing the emotional intensity of the characters’ experiences. Lester’s writing is a testament to the power of storytelling to shed light on the human experience and to challenge readers to confront difficult truths. The narrative technique makes this more than just a story; it’s an immersive journey. Find on Amazon

Conclusion

This Strange New Feeling is a powerful and moving novel that deserves to be read and discussed widely. It’s a story that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page, challenging you to consider the complexities of human nature and the enduring power of hope. Lester masterfully crafts a narrative that is both historically accurate and deeply emotionally resonant. This is not simply a book about the past; it’s a book about the enduring human spirit and its ability to find love and resilience even in the face of unimaginable adversity. Its relevance remains incredibly strong today as we grapple with issues of social justice and equality. The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the need to confront the darker chapters of our history.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in historical fiction, stories of resilience, or narratives that explore the complexities of human relationships. It is particularly suitable for those who want a deeper understanding of the experience of slavery in the American South. Readers who enjoyed novels like Toni Morrison’s *Beloved* or Edward P. Jones’ *The Known World* will likely find this book to be a compelling and thought-provoking read. It’s a book that challenges you, moves you, and leaves you with a renewed sense of the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion. This book matters because it tells a story that needs to be heard, and it does so with grace, power, and unflinching honesty. Get your copy now.