🔗 Share this article Exploring Charm City: A Cultural Writer's Reflection on Race, Law Enforcement, and Creative Expression Lawrence B.'s latest work, No Sense in Wishing, blends the intimate with the political in a memoir that serves as a tribute to his hometown. The publication delves into the artistic and cultural forces that formed his journey, intertwining together themes of family, parenthood, and institutional challenges. The Political Lens on Baltimore The author observes that the city has for decades been politicized and seen in racial terms. Burney recalls his early writings on law enforcement brutality, prompted by the Freddie Gray incident and his own household experiences. Over time, his approach evolved to a more contextual viewpoint, examining the city's history of segregation and redlining. Baltimore has probably the worst PR of any city in America. He argues that regardless of social ills, the urban reputation is frequently distorted by news reporting. Great creative work and musical talent arise from the community, yet these contributions often go unnoticed by wider viewers. Platforming Local Artists Via his publication True Laurels, Burney aimed to showcase local talents often overlooked by mainstream media. One significant story centered on a rapper called the artist, who faced alleged law enforcement harassment. During his investigation, the cops implicated were charged with federal crimes, exposing deep-rooted corruption. This case illustrated anti-Black and anti-poor policing. He emphasized that not all African American neighborhoods experience the same degree of policing. Emotional Depth and Personal Insight The book balances heartbreaking moments with lighthearted elements, mirroring the multifaceted nature of human experience. Burney focused on eliciting affective reactions in the audience, arguing that emotion outweighs technical proficiency in art. He discussed how artists like Lupe Fiasco deeply influenced his life, challenging perceptions of manhood and identity. Openness and Self-Discovery Writing about private topics—such as attending church, childcare, and being a parent—demanded considerable vulnerability. He admitted that discussing his experience as a father and the decision to pursue a professional chance in another city was particularly challenging. Writing about those feelings was not easy. The chapter likely took me a quarter of a year to even produce a initial version. Global Parallels This book additionally includes Burney's travels to the South African city and the Nigerian metropolis, drawing parallels between Baltimore and other worldwide cities. He proposes that Baltimore acts as a microcosm of broader societal dynamics, such as class conflict and ethnic segregation. Ultimately, the writer presents the city as a primer to understanding complicated social systems not just in America, but throughout the western world.