African american Quote by John Edgar Wideman
“Books are an attempt to control something that's uncontrollable. That's one of the beauties of African American life. There was this thing called slavery and adjustments were made. It literally destroyed millions, but it didn't destroy the inner lives of all the people who experienced it. There are still horrible things that go on because of the myth of race, but we don't have to succumb totally. If I had only a negative side of things to present, I think I would have much less of a drive to do it. Because what would be the point?”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The New Yorker, 1995
Books attempt to capture the uncontrollable aspects of life, especially the trauma of slavery, preserving inner resilience despite external devastation.
In simple terms: Stories help hold onto inner strength amid overwhelming hardship.
Key Takeaway
Use narrative to preserve humanity in the face of adversity.
Themes
resilience
memory
history
culture
healing
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
literary
social.
When to use this quote
- education
- community activism
- mental health work
- historical research
- creative writing
Key Concepts
narrative therapy
collective memory
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can stories empower marginalized voices?
- What role does literature play in confronting historical trauma?
A Different Perspective
Focusing on individual narratives may overlook systemic change needed.
