<p>Paul Robeson openly condemned bigotry and oppression, (despite him knowing such outspokenness could damage) his flourishing career as a singer and actor.</p>
<p>A. As it is
E. although he knew that such outspokenness could damage</p>
<p>Why is A wrong?
Should it be: despite his knowing???</p>
<p>Does that mean we can’t say: “Despite me being capable of making some time for the conference, I chose not to.”? Should it be: “Despite my being…”?</p>
<p>Can you give me a grammatical explanation, rather than just: it doesn’t sound right… thanks.</p>