Department Head Marc introduces the work of Toni Cade Bambara | Listen to This: Gorilla, My Love | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

A favorite short story recommended by Mark Cherry, "Gorilla My Love" explores the voice of a young black girl and themes of honesty and deception.

Key Insights

• 🫡 "Gorilla My Love" is a cherished short story that highlights the importance of honesty and respect.
• 🖤 The story stands out for its portrayal of the voice of a young black girl, which was rare in literature at the time of publication.
• 💦 Tony Kade Bambara's work, including "Gorilla My Love," paved the way for representation and diverse narratives in literature.
• ☠️ Bambara's other works, such as "The Salt Eaters" and "Those Bones Are Not My Child," tackle important and relevant social issues.
• 🖤 Tony Kade Bambara's editing of "The Black Woman" showcased the voices of prominent black writers and poets.
• 🎅 The San Diego connection to "The Black Woman" highlights the influence of the anthology in various communities.
• ❓ Other authors like A.J. California Cooper, Edward P. Jones, Edwidge Danticat, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, offer similar storytelling styles and themes.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What makes "Gorilla My Love" an important story?

"Gorilla My Love" is praised for its ability to capture the sounds of black speech and portray the voice of a young girl. This sets it apart, especially considering the time it was published in 1970.

Q: Who is Tony Kade Bambara and why is she significant?

Tony Kade Bambara was an influential writer and editor. She not only wrote short stories and novels but also edited important books such as "The Black Woman," an anthology featuring well-known contributors like Audre Lorde and Alice Walker.

Q: How does "Gorilla My Love" contribute to portraying black girls' experiences?

At the time of its publication, there were very few stories written about young black girls. "Gorilla My Love" stands out as a compelling portrayal of a smart and perceptive young black girl, providing representation that was lacking in literature.

Q: Are there other authors similar to Tony Kade Bambara?

Some authors similar to Bambara include A.J. California Cooper, Edward P. Jones, Edwidge Danticat, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie. These writers explore similar themes and capture diverse perspectives in their short stories.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• "Gorilla My Love" is a short story about a young girl who values honesty and respect.

• Tony Kade Bambara's collection, also titled "Gorilla My Love," was published in 1972 and edited by Toni Morrison.

• The story captures the sound of black speech and the voice of a preteen girl, showcasing the girl's realization that adults can lie.