When people think of Tulsa’s literary legacy, The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is often the first book that comes to mind. While Hinton’s impact on young adult fiction is undeniable, Tulsa’s literary history runs much deeper. The city has been home to influential writers whose works have shaped Oklahoma’s book scene but are often overlooked.
From poets and novelists to historians and journalists, these authors have left an indelible mark on literature. Let’s take a journey through Tulsa’s forgotten literary greats.
1. Rilla Askew – Chronicler of Oklahoma’s Past
Rilla Askew, born in the small town of McAlester, spent much of her life in Oklahoma, and her work beautifully captures the state’s complex history. Her novel Fire in Beulah (2001) is a haunting depiction of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, blending historical fiction with deeply personal narratives. Askew’s writing is poetic and evocative, cementing her place as one of Oklahoma’s most significant contemporary authors.
2. Ralph Ellison – A Tulsa Connection
Though Ralph Ellison, the author of Invisible Man, is primarily associated with Oklahoma City, he briefly spent time in Tulsa. His work explores themes of race, identity, and social justice, making him one of the most profound literary voices to emerge from the state. While not as closely tied to Tulsa as some other writers, his influence on the Oklahoma literary scene remains significant.
3. S. E. Hinton – More Than Just The Outsiders
While S.E. Hinton is famous for revolutionizing young adult fiction, many forget that she wrote several other impactful novels, including That Was Then, This Is Now and Rumble Fish, both set in Tulsa. Her ability to capture the raw emotions of teenage life changed the landscape of YA literature forever.
4. Joy Harjo – A Poetic Voice of Tulsa
Born in Tulsa in 1951, Joy Harjo became the first Native American U.S. Poet Laureate in 2019. A member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Harjo’s poetry is deeply rooted in her Indigenous heritage and the Oklahoma landscape. Her collections, including An American Sunrise, blend history, spirituality, and personal experience, making her an essential voice in both Tulsa and American literature.
5. John Berryman – The Tulsa-Tied Poet
Though more commonly linked to Minnesota, Pulitzer Prize-winning poet John Berryman spent part of his youth in Tulsa. His Dream Songs series, known for its confessional and experimental style, has influenced generations of poets. His work remains a vital part of 20th-century American poetry, and his time in Tulsa helped shape his early literary sensibilities.
Why Tulsa’s Literary Legacy Matters
Tulsa’s literary history is rich, diverse, and deserving of more recognition. These authors have captured the essence of Oklahoma’s culture, struggles, and triumphs, preserving the state’s history through their words.
For those interested in exploring how literary history shapes a city, check out ChicagoBookReview.com for insights into Chicago’s book scene. Like Tulsa, Chicago has a deep and often overlooked literary past that continues to inspire readers and writers alike.
Who are your favorite Oklahoma authors? Let’s celebrate Tulsa’s literary greats and keep their stories alive!