Harlem Rhapsody

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, racism, and gender discrimination.

Since their argument, Will and Jessie have continued to work together in a professional manner but haven’t met socially. On Friday, Will takes Jessie to the Civic Club, where they are joined by Harry Pace; his wife, Ethlynde; John Nail; Fletcher Henderson; and William Grant Still. Harry toasts to the success of his new venture, Black Swan Records. He says that the label will create art that uplifts Black people. Will jokes that only Harry’s label is truly Black; previously existing companies tried to pass for Black by hiring Black musicians but not Black staff.

Then, the group discusses Harding winning the election. Will was supporting Woodrow Wilson but changed his allegiance when Wilson inspired racists. Will regrets his previous support for Wilson, and Harry reassures Will that he has made up for it by campaigning for Harding. John and Ethlynde compliment The Emperor Jones. When asked for his opinion, Will says that he enjoyed Mr. Gilpin’s acting but not the writer of the play. Will continues, arguing that members of the press don’t respect Gilpin because they don’t capitalize “negro” but do capitalize “Caucasian.” Jessie suggests using their magazine to start a letter-writing campaign to the newspapers.