Review of Norman Riggs, Jr. "Lil of a Lot (and then some)" (2020)

Posted on Amazon and Goodreads (December 23, 2025)

Lil of a Lot (and then some) is a poetry collection releasing decades of Riggs's experiences, knowledge, and thoughts as a Black man enduring the United States. I describe this collection as a release due to the power and pang behind a lot of these pieces. I can feel Riggs letting it all go in his poetry. The collection is split into two parts: My Reality of Life and The Other Side of Me. For those looking for socio-political commentary, My Reality of Life is the section to read. The Other Side of Me are for those finding solace in Christian faith, remembering those who have passed, and examining relationships. Together, the two sections are yin (reflective) and yang (courageous).

The poems in My Reality of Life I much prefer as Riggs says aloud what many may be thinking. In the poems, Riggs is frustrated and angry with the U.S., but he doesn't give into despair. I highlight his poem "Freedom of Speech" which is, essentially, cussing out white supremacy. It is cathartic, relieving, and courageously direct. In one piece, he invites us to "Please write in the name of those you wish to remember." In this interactive piece, Riggs refuses to let the reader be passive, innocent, or inactive--We are all responsible. We must all be active. We must all remember those who have fallen due to racism. Riggs is so understood, I could nearly finish the poems before the last line.

If you'll allow me to get up all in my feelings about one line . . . In one instance, Riggs is asking Black people to find power in their Black heritage, citing the histories of African queens and kings. As I think Riggs would agree with me, we must know the entire history of the African continent--that includes royalty. We mustn't forget the communal societies, skilled agriculturalists, and a complex network of a range of skills (that would cover general laborers and what we would now call the service industry). I personally find pride in being descendant of writers and teachers (as is my background) rather than a single monarch (as I would call myself an anti-imperialist and by extension its sister, anti-monarchy).

Aside from my personal thoughts on monarchy, The Other Side of Me I do not have much comment. Admittedly, I believe the second section was more between Riggs, loved ones, and his Savior than Riggs and us as readers. Concerning grief, spirituality, eulogy, and relationships, the second section is a treat for those who are in reflection, in prayer with themselves, others, or God.

For a collection covering decades of pertinent issues, it is small. Which leaves so much more for Riggs to chew on. I want more. But, that is its title sake . . . a lil of quite A LOT!

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