The “Easy” Yet Complex Writing of Walter Mosley, A Black Jewish Author

by Mallory Sweeney

Although often pictured sporting his signature cocked, off-white fedora, Walter Mosley proves through his writing that he is certainly capable of wearing different hats.  Through a variety of genres, Mosley constantly explores black culture in America--noting the growth of a people who continue to redefine their role as "Americans."  While best known for his mystery/crime series featuring the vibrant detective Easy Rawlins (also popularized by the 1995 film Devil in a Blue Dress starring Denzel Washington), Mosley's writing refuses to be confined.

Born in 1952 in South...