Many powerful men who left their mark on history had another side– often little known, often sensitive, and often artistic. During World War II, Churchill and Eisenhower all took time out from the tension of war to pursue their private interests in painting and writing. And so it should come as no surprise that one of the greatest fighters of all times, Muhammad Ali has another side.

Ali’s artistic interests were developed by his father, Cassius Clay, Sr., who was a full-time sign painter and professional artist. Ali continued to draw and paint informally as he grew up and was able to get some serious art lessons from sports artist, Leroy Neiman, who attended most of his fights and with whom he had become good friends.

In contrast to his belief that he was the greatest fighter of Ali times, it is important to note that Ali did not claim to be a great artist. In part, he created art to convey his political and religious messages in the same way he used his poetry. As Ali used to say, I draw pictures with meanings.

Part II of this work ALI THE POET contains about 35 of Ali’s poems. Together with the poems in other chapters, the total approaches 40, making this book probably the largest single-source anthology of Ali’s poems available anywhere.

Part III is devoted to Ali’s work for peace and racial justice in South Africa, his hostage rescue missions and his many diplomatic ventures around the world.