Daddy Show

Bakar Wilson's debut collection of poetry titled, Daddy Show, deals with the loss of Wilson's father in a tragic car accident as a child, the sexual abuse he survived as a young teenager from his step-father, and how these events have affected his romantic relationships with men as a Black, gay man. He deals with these things at times with humor and analysis. In addition to this, he also critiques American politics and traditions, as well as how he deals with the Coronavirus as it breaks out in New York City in 2020. At its core, Daddy Show is an exercise in play. Wilson plays with language and form using wit and humor to portray sometimes difficult topics and ideas. There is an innovation in his work that is truly unique and thoughtful. His collection is an exercise in healing through poetry. Bakar Wilson's Daddy Show is an unflinching exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience. With sharp wit and humor, Wilson dives into the complexities of love, faith, and survival, reflecting on the loss of his father, surviving sexual abuse, and navigating his relationships as a Black, gay man. His poems speak with both tenderness and audacity, capturing the difficult truths of his life with precision and emotional depth. Through vivid language and a playful approach to form, Wilson creates a space for both healing and revelation, all while critiquing American politics, traditions, and the personal toll of living through crises like the 2020 pandemic. Daddy Show is a brilliant debut-equal parts dramatic and tender, full of wit, erudition, and fierce emotional clarity.