Emerson College Honors James Baldwin with ‘From Another Place’

Students, faculty, and staff were treated to a rare glimpse into into American writer James Baldwin’s life abroad, as captured in the documentary From Another Place, as well as insights from the filmmaker’s son, in an event commemorating the 100th anniversary of Baldwin’s birth.  

Held at the Bill Bordy Theatre on November 20, the screening and discussion with Timur Pakay, son of the late Sedat Pakay, a friend of Baldwin’s who made the documentary.

From Another Place provides insights into Baldwin’s experiences in Istanbul, where he reflects on various themes such as race, the American obsession with sexuality, and his writing career. 

“My dad and Baldwin were on a first-name basis — he always called him Jimmy. They were very close friends, talking about everything from literature to politics to travel,” said Timur Pakay.

“My dad described him as incredibly strong, with a beautiful face and personality,” he went on. “He wanted to capture Baldwin with Istanbul in the background, as it’s such an exotic place. Being outside the U.S. during the turbulent ’60s and ’70s really inspired Baldwin and helped him generate new ideas for his books and essays.”

Pakay also shared his thoughts on the vibrant atmosphere of Istanbul in the 1970s, which is depicted in the film. 

“My dad took Baldwin around the neighborhood, and you can see that in the film,” said Pakay. “There were children playing in the streets, outdoor vendors selling everything — from sour cherry juice served in shared plastic cups to other street foods. And if you’ve ever been to Istanbul, you know the sound of seagulls and how close the city is to the sea… It was a magical period.”

Kathy Pakay, Sedat’s wife, was also present and reflected on the bond between Baldwin and her husband.

“They became such close friends,” she said. “They spent so much time together that Baldwin was very comfortable with Sedat, able to ask him anything.”

Kimberly McLarin, Interim Dean of Professional and Graduate Studies, spoke about Baldwin’s reluctance to return to France due to his growing fame, which led him to seek refuge in 1970.

“Of course, Malcolm [X] and Martin [Luther King Jr.] had been assassinated, and he was really in a bad place emotionally,” said McLarin. “This was salvation for him — a moment of respite and refuge. He loved Turkey and Istanbul, and you can see it in his face, being able to walk the streets and talk to people.”

McLarin concluded the discussion by quoting a famous Baldwin saying:

“The truth is to say yes to life.”