Art Quote by August Wilson
“I didn't always value the ways black people talked. I thought, in order to make art out of it, you had to change it.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Fences, 1985
He realized that authentic voices shouldn't be forced into artistic conventions; true art respects original speech.
In simple terms: Respect original speech in art.
Key Takeaway
Honor genuine expression.
Themes
culture
authenticity
artistic integrity
racial identity
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- playwriting
- theatre
- community storytelling
- educational workshops
Key Concepts
language appropriation
cultural respect
artistic ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does altering dialect affect cultural memory?
- What responsibilities do artists have to authentic voices?
A Different Perspective
Changing speech can erase identity and nuance.
