Tue, Oct 21
|The Dead Poet
What Should We Do With Our Past?
Notes of a Native Son by James Baldwin The Case for Reparations by Ta-Nehisi Coates ⏱️ Preparation: Approx. 3 hours
Oct 21, 2025, 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The Dead Poet, 450 Amsterdam Ave #2, New York, NY
All readings will be sent to participants upon registration.
"The Case for Reparations" by Ta-Nehisi Coates
Coates makes a compelling argument for reparations by outlining the enduring impact of systemic racism, from slavery to redlining. This essay invites us to grapple with the lasting consequences of historical injustice and challenges us to consider how society should respond. Length: ~16 pages
"Notes of a Native Son" by James Baldwin
In this personal and incisive essay, Baldwin reflects on his own experiences growing up as a Black man in America, weaving together themes of race, history, and identity. Baldwin’s reflection on how the past shapes the present provides a poignant lens through which we can explore the complexity of reckoning with our history. Length: ~12 pages
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What are the expectations for preparation?
At Premise, we understand that your time is valuable, so we keep preparation light—typically under 2 hours. Each session revolves around a core text, whether it’s a short story, film, or essay, providing a shared foundation for meaningful conversation. This approach ensures everyone is ready to dive into thoughtful dialogue, creating a richer and more engaging experience. Your preparation means we all have a common starting point for exploring big ideas together.
Do I need to have previous experience with the text or question?
No, not at all! At Premise, we value both beginner eyes and deep experience—each brings something unique to the conversation. Whether you’ve been in many intellectual discussions or this is your first, our sessions are designed to make everyone feel comfortable and engaged. You don’t need to be an expert; our structure and guidelines help ensure that both the novice and the seasoned thinker feel welcome and supported. Premise is for anyone curious about life’s big questions.
What is a Premise session like?
A Premise session is a thoughtfully crafted, expertly facilitated conversation using the Premise discussion model. Together, we explore life’s enduring questions through short works of literature, film, or art. With just 1-2 hours of preparation, you’ll join a vibrant, meaningful discussion where the following values are embraced:
Active Participation: Everyone comes prepared to engage thoughtfully.
Listening & Reflection: We prioritize listening and reflection over debate.
Shared Inquiry: Our conversations are driven by curiosity and mutual exploration.
Premise creates a welcoming space for both beginners and experienced thinkers, ensuring every voice is heard in a dialogue that inspires deep learning and connection. Learn more about the participant experience.
Wait! These enduring questions are a bit weighty. Will this actually be enjoyable?
Absolutely! While we tackle life’s big questions, the atmosphere is engaging and enjoyable. At Premise, we believe learning should be joyful, not intimidating. Our expert facilitators guide the conversation in a way that makes deep topics approachable, encouraging curiosity and connection rather than pressure or competition. You’ll leave feeling inspired, connected, and enriched by the experience—plus, it’s fun to dive into meaningful discussions with fellow curious minds!
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