Your past is your shadow. It has form but no substance, except in the places you allow it to touch you. (
I believe black characters in fiction are still revolutionary, given our long history of erasure.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The inclusion of black characters in fiction challenges historical narratives and reflects on cultural representation.
Tananarive Due highlights the importance of black characters in literature and fiction, suggesting that their presence is not just a narrative choice but a revolutionary act against a backdrop of historical erasure. This assertion reflects the ongoing struggle for representation and recognition of black voices and experiences in storytelling, indicating that these characters can powerfully challenge societal norms and expectations.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
During a literary conference discussing diversity in publishing, this quote could be used to emphasize the importance of representation.
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