2 Love Raps (1969) by Carolyn M. Rodgers
A Gem from the Black Arts Movement
$50.00
Title: "2 Love Raps" (1969) by Carolyn M. Rodgers – From the Home of Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn
Description: This is a 1969 first edition of 2 Love Raps, authored by Carolyn M. Rodgers and published by Third World Press. The pamphlet-style book is a significant piece of literature from the Black Arts Movement, a movement that sought to create politically engaged work promoting Black pride and addressing social injustices. Rodgers, a co-founder of Third World Press, is known for her powerful poetry, which explores themes of identity, gender, love, and activism.
The pamphlet, consisting of a single folded sheet into four pages, is in good condition with minor tanning and a few light creases. This piece is even more notable as it was associated with the library of poet Gwendolyn Brooks, highlighting its connection to influential literary circles and elevating its cultural significance.
Provenance: This copy carries the embossed stamp that reads:
"From the home of Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn," featuring the Weather Underground’s emblem and the words "All Power to the People." This unique provenance connects it to two of the most prominent figures of the radical left, adding a layer of historical and cultural significance to the work.
About the Book: 2 Love Raps is one of Rodgers’ early works and showcases her talent for blending personal experiences with broader social themes. Her voice is poignant and unapologetically authentic, addressing both personal and political struggles. As part of Third World Press's early publications, this work stands as a testament to Black literary activism and the power of independent Black publishing during a tumultuous period of American history.
Rodgers was a Chicago native and a pivotal figure in the Black Arts Movement. Her poetry often focused on themes of identity, religion, and feminism, standing out for her nuanced approach to issues of race and gender. Her contributions were not only influential in the literary world but also created space for deeper conversations on Black womanhood and feminism(AALBC)(Between the Covers).
Condition:
The pamphlet is in good condition for its age, showing minor signs of wear such as slight yellowing and light creasing on the cover. The interior pages are clean and intact, making this a well-preserved piece of literary history.
Provenance & Significance:
This edition’s provenance is tied to Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn, two iconic figures in the Weather Underground and 1960s-70s counterculture. The embossed stamp adds a unique historical interest, making this an exceptional find for collectors of radical history, Black Arts literature, and feminist activism. The additional association with Gwendolyn Brooks’ library further solidifies its value in the realm of influential Black literary circles.
Why We're Selling:
The proceeds from this sale will support the upcoming publication of:
"Bomb Ass Recipes from the Kitchen of Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn,"
a new book by artist Shane Bugbee, featuring family recipes, stories, and reflections from Ayers and Dohrn.
Estimated Value:
Given its provenance, historical significance, and the rarity of early works by Carolyn M. Rodgers, the book is valued between $150-$300, making it a unique addition for collectors of Black Arts Movement literature and radical political history.
Shipping & Handling:
This book will be carefully packaged and shipped with insurance and tracking to ensure its safe arrival.
A vital addition for collectors of Black Arts literature and countercultural works from the 1960s-70s.
Certificate of Authenticity
Each item in this exclusive collection of Books, Zines, Political Pamphlets, and Unique Artifacts has been personally curated from the home of American revolutionaries Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn. Spanning their long careers as activists and radical organizers, these rare pieces are more than just collectibles—they’re tangible pieces of history that bear witness to a life of resistance, community building, and defiance against the status quo.
Every item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity featuring an embossed stamp that reads: “From the Home of Bernardine Dohrn & Bill Ayers,” accompanied by the Weather Underground logo and the powerful phrase “Power to All People.” This stamp certifies the provenance of these historically significant items, ensuring their authenticity and preserving the legacy of two individuals who helped shape American political activism.
Whether it’s a well-worn political pamphlet that fueled the fires of rebellion or a personal artifact from their private collection, this certificate guarantees that you’re holding a genuine piece of radical history.