In the first half of the poem, my general reaction/thought was, explain the complexities of African collective identities. African collective identities are complex due to the continent’s past diversity of cultures, language, and histories. With over 2000 distinct ethnic groups, each with its unique traditions in world views, there is no single, homogeneous “African “identity. Instead, identities are deeply rooted in local communities, tribal affiliations and religious contacts. Energies are further shape by historical factors, such as colonialism, and the slave trade, which have left lasting impact on perceptions of identity. The tension between individuals from these ethnic identities and the border, often stated and also imposed on national identities, they’ve added another layer of complexity. Despite all these challenges, there are also moments like pan Africanism that seek to promote unity and solidarity, among Africans, highlighting the ongoing evolution of the Dynamism of African collective entities. My thought evokes a sense of awe at the continents, rich tapestry of cultures and histories. It also raises questions about the enduring impact of colonization, and how that interacting web of the ethnic and national identities, and the potential for unity and acceptance into society. It’s a reminder of African communities and an opportunity for global awareness and collaboration. However, it’s essential to approach this exploration with sensitivity to the challenges and conflicts that arise from these complexities in recognition of the ongoing evolution of African identity in our interconnected world.
The poet wrote, on how the skin color black isn’t just described as a dark shade of brown, but a variety of shades, and how she quotes “ beautiful, strong, exotic in profile” . In general, the poet wrote on how the skin type shades are described as an adamant object, where it will be fabric, or some kind of beautiful object in a way, and how I see it being put forward on how they’re all accepted. Just as a work of art is defined by its individuality and characters, so it’s the beauty of human skin. From the deepest ebony, to the fairest porcelain, every skin tone tells a story of heritage, resilience, and the remarkable diversity of our world. True beauty is found in conformity, but also in the appreciation of our differences, and it’s in embracing this diversity, that we truly understand the exquisite nature of all skin types.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the poem. I enjoyed it in a deep sense of connection through how finding collective identity in origin countries may be difficult. and I found myself relating the poem to real world situations. I have also found that the poet carefully crafted her words, so that way it would flow quite nicely to get to the main idea which I really liked and I understood what was being brought forward. The words were very captivating and interesting to me on how she related some things to inanimate objects like “black, brown, tan coffee, coffee, cream, Ebony, or exotic are like flowering lips or fine fabric”. I find myself pondering its general theme, after I finish reading it. This poem reminds me of the transformative power of language and art, and I couldn’t help but appreciate the skill of the poet in conveying such profound emotions, and ideas in just a few verses. It was a truly, fun poem to read and felt after I read it, renewed appreciation for the beauty of her words.
Image Citations
https://stock.adobe.com/fr/images/close-up-black-female-with-fluorescent-prints-on-skin-cosmic-paint-glowing-on-neon-lights-black-background-in-studio-female-with-body-art-closing-half-of-face-touching-beauty-fashion-concept/481847128
https://www.123rf.com/photo_206362777_portrait-of-a-beautiful-african-woman-with-unusual-body-art-with-black-skin-and-colored-eyes-and.html?vti=nlxyg37f5hbd2893ng-1-15&is_plus=1
https://webneel.com/webneel/blog/30-stunning-black-woman-paintings-illustrations-frank-morrison
In “ You know I’m No Good” by Jessie Ann Foley, the protagonist, Mai, Goes through the struggles of young adolescence, while going through the layers of her self identity. Mai struggles to define herself in a world that seems to dictate her identity.
