Amsterdam Quote by Ruby Dee
“My mother - my stepmother, really, she herself have been what they call an elocutionist. And she was the one who first encouraged me to write poetry, because she used to read it to us. And then when I began to write when I was nine years old, my first poem was published in the Amsterdam News. I called it "The Graveyard."”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Ruby Dee Interview, 1975
Her stepmother, an elocutionist, nurtured her love for poetry, leading to early publication.
In simple terms: A supportive mentor sparked early creative success.
Key Takeaway
Seek mentors who inspire your talents.
Themes
mentorship
creativity
early achievement
Mood
grateful
inspired
Type
personal
motivational
When to use this quote
- Writing workshops
- school poetry contests
- publishing young writers
Key Concepts
Literary development
family influence
Questions to Reflect On
- Who has inspired your creative start?
- How can you mentor others?
A Different Perspective
Early support may not guarantee sustained guidance later.
