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Afro Quote by Audre Lorde

“DeLois lived up the block on 142nd Street and never had her hair done, and all the neighbourhood women sucked their teeth as she walked by. Her crispy hair twinkled in the summer sun as her big proud stomach moved her on down the block while I watched, not caring whether or not she was a poem.” quote by Audre Lorde
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““DeLois lived up the block on 142nd Street and never had her hair done, and all the neighbourhood women sucked their teeth as she walked by. Her crispy hair twinkled in the summer sun as her big proud stomach moved her on down the block while I watched, not caring whether or not she was a poem.””

Audre Lorde

About This Quote

Source Poem: “The Block” (unpublished), 1970s

A vivid portrait of a woman whose presence commands attention despite societal neglect.

In simple terms: A woman’s presence shines despite neglect.

Key Takeaway

Notice overlooked individuals.

Themes

visibility social observation poetry

Mood

reflective critical

Type

observational poetic

When to use this quote

  • neighbourhood walks
  • observing strangers
  • social commentary

Key Concepts

gender class urban life

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does the narrator truly see?
  • How does the woman’s appearance challenge stereotypes?
A Different Perspective

May romanticize poverty or overlook systemic issues.

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