Character Quote by Jesmyn Ward
“I think that voodoo as a spiritual tradition has been demonized for so long in popular culture. I wanted to write against that and write a character who practiced that spiritual tradition who was not evil and intent on creating zombies or causing pain through voodoo dolls or whatever.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Jesmyn Ward on her writing, 2010s
Ward criticizes how voodoo is demonized in popular culture. She deliberately created a voodoo-practicing character who is not evil or harmful, presenting the tradition as spiritual.
In simple terms: She wrote a positive fictional practitioner of voodoo.
Key Takeaway
Challenge stereotypes by telling fuller stories.
Themes
representation
stereotypes
spirituality
culture
writing
Mood
reflective
determined
insightful
Type
authorial statement
cultural commentary
When to use this quote
- crafting diverse characters
- discussing religious representation
- media criticism
- storytelling workshops
Key Concepts
narrative counter-argument
othering
cultural context
Questions to Reflect On
- What popular traditions have been unfairly demonized?
- How can fiction make an unknown tradition feel human?
A Different Perspective
Countering stereotypes requires deep cultural study, not just good intentions.
