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Dark Rapture (James Baldwin)
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James Baldwin first met Delaney in 1940 when a friend, who was concerned about
Baldwin's emotional state, suggested that he visit the artist at his studio on Greene Street.
The sixteen-year-old Baldwin stood at a crossroads in his life, faced with making profound professional
and personal choices. The older man served as mentor as well as an example of a black artist who
had achieved success and respect within his profession.Both men recognized in one another gifts
of intelligence and creativity and the possession of a powerful inherent wisdom. Baldwin
expressed as much when he recounted how Delaney opened the door and proceeded to perform an
"instant X-ray of my brain, lungs, liver, heart, bowels, and spinal column" before inviting
him in to tea. Their friendship would last a lifetime. The rich, vibrant color and strong contrast
in Dark Rapture certainly convey both the intensity and energy that Delaney perceived in this
young man of great promise.
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