Rob Franklin has embarked on an exciting literary journey with his debut novel, ‘Great Black Hope.’ After spending two years immersed in a satire exploring techno, tourism, and youth culture in Berlin, Franklin came to a pivotal realization: his initial narrative could be expressed by someone else. He decided to pivot to a project that was deeply personal, one that only he could authentically write.
Franklin’s ‘Great Black Hope’ tells the story of a young queer Black Stanford graduate caught in a storm of challenges after his arrest for cocaine possession in New York. This dramatic series of events drives him back to his hometown of Atlanta, where Franklin himself has deep roots. Drawing from his own life experiences as an Atlantan and a past resident of New York, Franklin crafted a novel that resonates with both his upbringing and his current environment.
As he reflected on his life’s journey, Franklin began writing ‘Great Black Hope’ the day before his 26th birthday while staying in his childhood bedroom in Atlanta. His background as a poet and writer, with previous work featured in esteemed publications like New England Review and Prairie Schooner, has contributed to forging his unique voice. He acknowledged that although he has ‘a lot of love’ for his original idea, ‘Great Black Hope’ felt inherently more personal and reflective of his experiences.
In discussing his connection to Atlanta, Franklin remarked on his upbringing in Cascade, a locale that prominently features in the book. He was intricately woven into the fabric of southwest Atlanta’s Black professional class, which inspired much of his storytelling, particularly given the lack of representation in television and film. Franklin has observed this absence and aimed to accurately depict the culture in his work.
Franklin’s journey into writing began in high school when he experimented with poetry. Although he was known for his poetry, he didn’t delve deeply into fiction until attending college, where he minored in creative writing. He wrote an array of short stories, with one particular piece about a xenophobic recluse who falls for Anna Nicole Smith standing out in his memory. This foray into writing fiction allowed Franklin to hone his voice and approach to storytelling.
The transition from working management consulting to writing a novel marked a significant change in Franklin’s life. With ample time on his hands when not at the office, he attempted to construct a novel set in Berlin. This initial endeavor allowed Franklin to understand the intricacies of the novel-writing process, setting the stage for ‘Great Black Hope.’
In drawing parallels between Atlanta and New York within ‘Great Black Hope,’ Franklin emphasizes the contrasting rhythms of the two cities. The novel’s first segment unfolds amidst the vibrant New York club scene, while the latter portion of the narrative transports readers back to the contemplative landscapes of Atlanta. Franklin sought to embody the experience of being in Atlanta, using the extensive hours spent driving in the city to infuse a drifting, reflective quality into the storytelling.
As he articulated his goals with ‘Great Black Hope,’ Franklin recognized the themes arising from his writing process. A colleague likened the novel to a ‘(takedown of Black respectability politics),’ a description that, while not wholly encompassing Franklin’s intent, encouraged him to delve deeper into his own thematic explorations. Central to the narrative is an examination of the pressures surrounding achievement and the societal fixation on respectability within the Black community—issues that can adversely affect individuals rigidly adhering to those ideals.
Franklin hoped that readers would engage empathetically and critically with the narratives surrounding drug use and its implications on Black bodies. Ultimately, he aimed to create a politically charged narrative that also explored the relationships that shape our lives. Grounded in the reality of friendships formed in our 20s and the familial expectations that often accompany them, ‘Great Black Hope’ reflects the complicated dynamics that play out under larger societal systems. To Franklin, the novel ultimately speaks to resilience and hope amidst adversity.
In reminiscing about his time in Atlanta, Franklin noted he visits every Christmas and often returns during the summer. In fact, he spent considerable time in Atlanta while working on his book, which provided a sense of grounding amidst his creative process. The warmth of returning to his childhood home for a book launch signified a full-circle moment for him, allowing him to celebrate not only his literary achievements but also the city that has played a pivotal role in shaping his identity.
As ‘Great Black Hope’ begins to touch audiences, Franklin’s reflections capture the forming of a voice that resonates with personal and collective narratives. His examination of identity, culture, and relationships in Atlanta and New York invites readers to experience a deeply personal story that embodies both the challenges and joys encountered along the journey of self-discovery.
image source from：atlantamagazine
