62 pages • 2 hours read
Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992
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Book Brief
174
Play • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • 1990s
1994
Adult
16-25 years
NP
Super Short Summary
Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 by Anna Deavere Smith is a documentary theater piece that portrays three days of riots in Los Angeles following the acquittal of four white police officers charged with assaulting Rodney King, a Black man, in a nationally sensationalized incident. The play features verbatim interviews with a diverse range of voices, providing a complex, kaleidoscopic view of American race relations. The work addresses sensitive issues including racially-motivated violence and social injustice.
Informative
Challenging
Emotional
Gritty
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
2,286 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Anna Deavere Smith’s Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 receives acclaim for its powerful and evocative portrayal of the aftermath of the Rodney King trial. Critics praise Smith's unique method of using verbatim theatre to bring diverse voices to life, enhancing the narrative’s authenticity and emotional impact. However, some note that the fragmented structure can be challenging, potentially causing confusion for readers unfamiliar with the events. Overall, it is regarded as an important and thought-provoking work.
Who Should Read Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992?
Readers who appreciate Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992 by Anna Deavere Smith are likely intrigued by social justice, race relations, and American history. Fans of works like Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates and The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander will find Smith's compelling narrative and diverse perspectives engaging.
2,286 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Angela King
Angela King
She offers a perspective that counters dominant narratives, detailing Rodney King's upbringing in a harmonious environment. Her story illustrates the personal impact of systemic racism and its capacity to inspire activism.
Maxine Waters
Maxine Waters
As a congresswoman and public figure, she provides both a community and official view on the riots. Her speeches and interviews highlight historical and structural aspects of racial issues across the United States.
Paul Parker
Paul Parker
He vehemently challenges Reginald Denny's vision of racial harmony, emphasizing black pride and firm resistance. His perspective reflects a broader, collective vehemence against systemic injustice.
Anonymous Hollywood Agent
Anonymous Hollywood Agent
An introspective character who remains physically distant from the riots, offering thoughts on racial guilt and systemic inequality. His narrative explores the deep-seated structural issues that contributed to the unrest.
174
Play • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • 1990s
1994
Adult
16-25 years
NP
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