Currently, I'm reading Long Train to the Redeeming Sin (Kola Boof) with a Twitter Bookclub. Today we discuss the first short story in the book, The Lioness.
I'll be honest, I feel disconnected from it because I don't feel like I know what's going on. As I was reading it, I kept having to go back and reread parts for clarity. At first I thought it was a cultural disconnect, you know, that I didn't know some of the traditions that are probably commonplace to the audience the author intended.
When I read Toni Morrison, I generally have to go back and reread part as well to catch subtle symbolism or foreshadowing and what not, but that's not the same feeling I got when I read The Lioness.
Can't put my finger on where my confusion lies. Some it surely comes from some of the expressions like: mama-tit boy, sexy leopard, irhala, kasha, etc. Many of the words that seem foreign to me are explained, but they don't entirely clear up the fog in my mind.
Let me see if I can give you an example. Soti, the most favored wife of Kueth, was said to have come from a group of people known to eat their newborn's afterbirth. What I don't understand is...is that a bad thing? I can't quite tell. Right after this admission of the afterbirth eating, the word "kasha" appears. I have no idea what "kasha" is, but I bet if I did, it might at least alleviate some of my confusion. However if eating the afterbirth is a bad thing, why is she the most favored wife?
Just some thoughts I was having. Maybe the discussion will help shed some light on my darkness.
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