Damn, Candy Man He Ain't All That" is the title of a memoir and poetry collection by August Renee that explores her experiences growing up in Chicago's Cabrini Green housing project, focusing on resilience and community rather than the boogeyman figure of the Candyman legend. The phrase likely comes from this book and is used to distinguish the author's story from the urban legend of the Candyman, which involves a vengeful spirit summoned by saying his name five times into a mirror.
Context of the Phrase
- The Book:The full title is "Damn, Candy Man He Ain't All That I Lived Beneath The Candy Lady For Years!".
- The Author:It's a personal account by August Renee about growing up in the Cabrini-Green projects in Chicago during the 1970s and 80s.
- The Focus:The book uses poetry to tell a story of survival, community, family, and the entrepreneurial spirit of people in the projects, contrasting it with the mythical Boogeyman figure.
- The Legend:The phrase directly references the urban legend of the Candyman, who is a spirit said to be summoned by saying his name five times in front of a mirror.
- The Meaning:By titling her work this way, the author suggests that the real-life experiences and people within her community were more significant and complex than the fictional horror figure.
