Toomer's literary career began in 1923 with the publication of Cane, the first and one of the finest portrayals of the black experience, and ended, somewhat mysteriously, thirteen years later with the publication of the long poem "Blue Mountain." Toomer and his work were forgotten until the black movement of the late 1960s rediscovered Cane, and a fresh generation of critics praised its aesthetics and philosophical merits. McKay explores the growth and decline of Toomer as a literary artist. Originally published in 1987. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.