Patriarchy Blues

Reflections on Manhood

By: Frederick Joseph

Narrated by: Preston Butler III, Novell Jordan

Length: 6 hrs and 16 mins

Publisher's summary

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER

"[A] scorching treatise on toxic masculinity. Joseph’s critiques of “the patriarchy... both overt and ingrained” are razor-sharp, but it’s the clear-eyed reckoning of his own place within it that tethers the soul of his book." —Publishers Weekly

"Joseph has learned a great deal from bell hooks here, and I think she would be proud because Patriarchy Blues is such a moving, inspiring, rigorous vision for living.” —Robert Jones, Jr., New York Times bestselling author of The Prophets

In this personal and poignant collection, the author of the New York Times bestseller The Black Friend examines the culture of masculinity through the lens of a Black man.

What does it mean to be a man today? How does the pervasive yet elusive idea of “toxic masculinity” actually reflect men’s experiences—particularly those of color—and how they navigate the world?

In this thought-provoking collection of essays, poems, and short reflections, Frederick Joseph contemplates these questions and more as he explores issues of masculinity and patriarchy from both a personal and cultural standpoint. From fatherhood, and “manning up” to abuse and therapy, he fearlessly and thoughtfully tackles the complex realities of men’s lives today and their significance for society, lending his insights as a Black man.

Written in Joseph’s unique voice, with an intelligence and raw honesty that demonstrates both his vulnerability and compassion, Patriarchy Blues forces us to consider the joys, pains, and destructive nature of manhood and the stereotypes it engenders.

©2022 Frederick Joseph (P)2022 HarperCollins Publishers

Daswatimtawkinbout

Thank you, brother. This was cleansing to receive. When done, pass this listen to another.

Definitely worth reading/listening!

Written in our moment, but teaching lessons that are timeless. This is a deeply personal story, leaving the reader feeling that you have gotten to know the author intimately, but also feeling that you have learned a lot about the world. Highly recommend!

Should have bought the physical book

The writing was great! I think there is some context lost when there are multiple voices in the story though. Reading the physical copy would have likely eliminated the confusion I experienced when switching between voices (not narrators). That’s not the fault of the author, but maybe just a reflection of my own ability to follow when only listening. Would recommend.

Important is an Understatement

I went into this book hoping to expand my knowledge of patriarchy, and I must say I wasn’t disappointed. So many layers, so many topics, so many threads to consider around the topic of patriarchy. Fred does a beautiful job exposing all of those layers. I highly recommend this book to everyone. Books like this open minds. Books like this will change our world,

Must read

I wish every high school student could read this book and talk about it, learn from it. I think that would change the world for the better.

Much needed healing. My Soul Wept.

As a 24yo black leftist man, I am often left struggling in the balance of viewing myself as both an oppressor and as the oppressed. For many years, I have given all of myself in the service of others desperately seeking the fulfillment that i’ve recently come to learn that i am the only one who can define my happiness in this way. This piece perfectly composes my internal struggle in a intersectional and emotional process that provided me with much needed validation and insight into the work i have yet to undertake and what i’ve spent my life advocating for as well. Despite my efforts, I have never truthfully had my ideals, including internalized misogyny and racism challenged in such a meaningful and concise way. I will share this piece of literature with my family and friends especially the black men among them.

Awakening to the impact of Patriarchy and Racism

This book is a deeply personal memoir: a compilation of reflections, eye witness accounts, essays and poems. It is precisely because it’s so personal that his work has so much impact on the reader.

I can imagine a person of any class, race, or economic standing relating to the author’s reflections and lessons.

The author has opened my eyes to what it means to consider “the least of us” in striving for a world in which each of us is precious. In particular, I learned that belonging to one oppressed class of persons does not preclude me from oppressing another. This realization opens up for me many possibilities for personal growth.

I strongly recommend Patriarchy Blues.

Poetic truth and hope

Fred Joseph speaks the truth painfully yet poetically. One can easily relate to his experiences, even the most hurtful ones, even as a white woman. And I applaud him for the last few chapters on moving forward, being an ancestor of liberated people. All of us!!! 💪🏾❤️🤎

One of the best out there

This was the best book I have read on masculinity and patriarchy since bell hooks! Intersectional, nuanced, accountability driven, and beautifully written. Must read for men looking to heal and be better.

Brilliant

Brilliant, poetic, dynamic, informative & easy to digest. An essential read for everyone. A critical analysis of all the important issues surrounding patriarchy, white supremacy, capitalism, homophobia, and much more with grace & ease.