Solitary

What is the 13th Amendment, and how does it relate to the prison system in the United States, according to Woodfox? Discuss the connection the text makes between the history of slavery in the United States and contemporary incarceration.

In Chapter 54, Woodfox writes that he was forced to choose between justice and freedom. Describe what he means by this choice, and explain why, based on his character, this was such a difficult decision. 

At the end of the book, Woodfox writes that “an unjust economic system can only be perpetuated if we, the majority of the population, are at odds with one another” (379). Describe how this unjust economic system led to Woodfox spending more than 40 years in solitary confinement.

Throughout the book, Woodfox writes that his connection with Herman Wallace and Robert King helped him survive decades in solitary confinement. Describe how this relationship helped Woodfox persevere. 

Books played an important role in Woodfox’s emotional and intellectual development, as well as his legal fights. Describe three instances in which books had an impact on Woodfox’s life, explaining why they are significant. 

Woodfox writes that the American justice system is undermined by bias, prejudice, and racism. Describe how these factors played out in Woodfox’s experience in the justice system.

In Solitary, Woodfox elucidates the toll that solitary confinement takes on people’s physical and mental wellbeing. Explain how solitary confinement impacts people’s health, drawing on instances from Woodfox’s life as examples.

In Chapter 11, Woodfox writes that “when you have no power you often use language as a defense mechanism,” (71). Describe the role of language in challenging power dynamics, citing examples from Woodfox’s experience.