Toni Morrison’s influence on our lives – as African Americans, as women, as lovers of literature – can be felt throughout this blog, from its odd title and the pseudonymous names Frieda and I have chosen for ourselves, to the way we see the word around us. Our eternal thanks and gratitude, Ms. Morrison. Happy 78th Birthday!
”In the beginning, people would say, ‘Do you regard yourself as a black writer, or as a writer?’ and they also used the word woman with it – woman writer. So at first I was glib and said I’m a black woman writer, because I understood that they were trying to suggest that I was ‘bigger’ than that, or better than that. I simply refused to accept their view of bigger and better. I really think the range of emotions and perceptions I have had access to as a black person and as a female person are greater than those of people who are neither. I really do. So it seems to me that my world did not shrink because I was a black female writer. It just got bigger.” (New York Times)
Posted by Cora on February 18, 2009 at 7:56 PM
Amen! I do feel it and I am so glad you posted this birthday shout out. I just can’t seem to keep up with everything.
Much love to you and Frieda. I identify with your conscious choice of pseudonyms. Names have power. Black-Eyed Susan’s (my other blog) is named for a collection of short stories by black women writers. Color Online, while not a pseudonym, its meaning runs deep for me.
Glad we connected. I am inspired by black women supporting one another. Kudos to you.
Your new and long time to come fan,
Color Online Reader Activist
Posted by Claudia on February 18, 2009 at 9:08 PM
I am definitely familiar with Black-Eyed Susans – an excellent choice! Can you believe TM is almost 80? I’m so glad that she is still writing and going strong.
Posted by naysue on February 19, 2009 at 12:21 AM
Doh! I was looking for something to book related to post today. lol
Posted by naysue on February 19, 2009 at 12:29 AM
You know what I meant.
Posted by Wilhelmina Jenkins on February 19, 2009 at 10:50 AM
Amazing! 78, and still going strong, still evolving! Happy birthday, Toni Morrison, and long may you write!
Posted by jo on March 4, 2009 at 9:11 PM
you chose a great great quote from TM. thank god in heaven for TM.
Posted by Claudia on March 5, 2009 at 9:25 AM
@jo co-sign on that!