How It Feels to Be Colored Me: Beyond Zora Neale Hurston

In the landscape of American literature, Zora Neale Hurston's seminal essay, "How It Feels to Be Colored Me," examines identity with nuanced perspective, prompting ongoing dialogues about race and self-perception. The Harlem Renaissance, a vibrant artistic and intellectual movement, provided a backdrop against which Hurston explored the complexities of racial identity, and the essay captures the spirit of this era. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) preserves and disseminates knowledge about Black history and culture, underscoring the importance of understanding the historical context of Hurston's work. The Library of Congress houses an extensive collection of resources related to African American literature, offering invaluable materials for researchers and scholars seeking to delve deeper into "how it feels to be the colored me." Hurston's unique exploration of racial identity encourages comparison of her work with that of other writers who explore the concept of double consciousness.

Racial identity is a complex and multifaceted concept, one that is continually evolving under the pressures of history, social change, and individual experience. It encompasses an individual's sense of belonging to a particular racial group, shaped by shared heritage, cultural practices, and societal perceptions. This identity is not static; it is a dynamic process of self-definition, often influenced by external forces and internal negotiations.

Zora Neale Hurston: A Voice of Self-Possession

Zora Neale Hurston stands as a towering figure in the exploration of racial identity, particularly through her insightful essays and groundbreaking novels. Her essay, “How It Feels to Be Colored Me,” offers a vibrant and self-assured perspective on race, challenging the prevailing narratives of her time. Likewise, novels such as Their Eyes Were Watching God and Mules and Men delve into the nuances of Black life, celebrating its richness and resilience.

Hurston's work is notable for its focus on the interior lives of her characters, portraying them with dignity and complexity. She captured the essence of Black communities, emphasizing their cultural traditions and oral histories.

Thesis: Contextualizing Complexity

Examining Hurston's work alongside the perspectives of her contemporaries and within relevant historical and social contexts reveals the intricate nature of racial identity. By comparing and contrasting her views with those of other prominent voices of the Harlem Renaissance, such as Langston Hughes and W.E.B. Du Bois, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse ways in which Black intellectuals grappled with questions of race, belonging, and self-determination.

Furthermore, understanding the historical and social landscape of the early 20th century – including the legacy of slavery, the rise of Jim Crow, and the burgeoning Black cultural movements – provides essential context for interpreting Hurston's contributions. This contextualization allows us to see how her work both reflected and challenged the dominant ideologies of her era.

Ultimately, this exploration aims to illuminate the complexities and nuances of racial identity, demonstrating its enduring significance in shaping individual lives and collective histories. By engaging with Hurston's legacy and the broader intellectual currents of her time, we can foster a more informed and nuanced understanding of race in the modern world.

Hurston's Unique Lens: Celebrating Self and Heritage

Racial identity is a complex and multifaceted concept, one that is continually evolving under the pressures of history, social change, and individual experience. It encompasses an individual's sense of belonging to a particular racial group, shaped by shared heritage, cultural practices, and societal perceptions. This identity is not static; it is a dynamic interplay between self-definition and external categorization. To understand Zora Neale Hurston's contribution to this discourse, it's crucial to examine how she crafted her own unique lens through which to view and represent Black life and heritage.

The Confidence of "How It Feels to Be Colored Me"

Hurston's essay, "How It Feels to Be Colored Me," stands as a powerful testament to self-acceptance and a defiant rejection of victimhood.

Unlike some of her contemporaries who focused on the burdens of racial discrimination, Hurston embraces her identity with unbridled confidence.

She presents herself as an individual who is not defined or diminished by her race.

Instead, she views her "colored" identity as a source of richness and complexity.

Navigating White Society on Her Own Terms

Hurston's interactions with white society are portrayed with a refreshing sense of agency.

She doesn't shy away from acknowledging racial differences.

However, she refuses to be confined or defined by them.

In moments of cultural exchange, such as listening to jazz with white patrons, she highlights the profoundness of her own experiences and feelings, suggesting a deeper connection to the music's roots.

This challenges the notion of a singular, dominant cultural experience.

The Power of Metaphor and Imagery

Hurston masterfully employs metaphor and imagery to convey her perspective.

She likens herself to a brown bag of miscellany, suggesting that within her racial identity lies a complex tapestry of experiences and emotions, just as rich and varied as any other.

This imagery not only emphasizes her individuality but also underscores the multifaceted nature of Black identity itself.

Their Eyes Were Watching God: A Celebration of Black Womanhood

Hurston's literary works, particularly Their Eyes Were Watching God, provide a nuanced and vibrant portrayal of Black life.

The novel is a powerful narrative of self-discovery, resilience, and the search for individual fulfillment within a Black community.

Janie Crawford's journey is a testament to the complexities of Black womanhood in the early 20th century.

It emphasizes the importance of self-determination and challenging societal expectations.

Empowerment and Self-Discovery

Their Eyes Were Watching God can be interpreted as a narrative of Black female empowerment.

Janie's relentless pursuit of self-discovery, despite facing societal pressures and personal challenges, is a powerful message.

Her journey underscores the importance of finding one's own voice and defining one's own identity, independent of external constraints.

Cultural Heritage and Folk Traditions

Hurston's work is deeply rooted in Black cultural heritage and folk traditions.

She meticulously incorporates elements of Black vernacular, folklore, and storytelling into her narratives.

This preservation and celebration of cultural traditions serve to enrich her portrayal of Black identity.

It provides a counter-narrative to the dominant, often distorted, representations of Black life in mainstream culture.

The Shaping Influence of Eatonville

Eatonville, Florida, the first incorporated Black municipality in the United States, played a formative role in shaping Hurston's worldview and artistic vision.

Growing up in a self-governed Black community instilled in her a sense of pride, self-reliance, and cultural affirmation that profoundly influenced her writings.

A Haven for Black Identity

Eatonville provided Hurston with a unique vantage point from which to observe and celebrate Black culture.

It fostered an environment where Black identity could flourish, free from the pervasive racism and discrimination that characterized much of the American South.

This experience allowed her to develop a deep appreciation for the resilience, creativity, and cultural richness of the Black community.

Shaping a Worldview

Eatonville's influence is evident in Hurston's optimistic portrayal of Black life.

Her characters are often portrayed with dignity, agency, and a strong sense of community.

This positive representation challenged the prevailing stereotypes of the time and contributed to a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of Black identity in American literature.

Voices in Conversation: Contrasting Perspectives from the Harlem Renaissance

Hurston's celebration of Black culture and individual identity was not the only voice resonating within the vibrant intellectual landscape of the Harlem Renaissance. To gain a fuller appreciation of the era's discourse on racial identity, it is essential to consider the perspectives of her contemporaries, particularly Langston Hughes and W.E.B. Du Bois, whose ideas both complemented and contrasted with Hurston's own.

Langston Hughes: The Poet of the People

Langston Hughes, a towering figure of the Harlem Renaissance, approached the theme of racial identity with a focus on the everyday experiences and struggles of the Black working class.

His poetry and prose served as a powerful counterpoint to the prevailing racial stereotypes of the time, showcasing the dignity, resilience, and cultural richness of ordinary Black lives.

Unlike Hurston's emphasis on individual self-discovery and celebration, Hughes often highlighted the systemic inequalities and social injustices faced by African Americans.

While Hurston celebrated the vibrancy of Black folklore and Southern communities, Hughes often depicted the realities of urban life, exploring themes of economic hardship, discrimination, and the search for belonging in a racially divided society.

Hughes's focus on collective experience versus Hurston's celebration of individual identity presents a crucial contrast, illustrating the breadth of perspectives within the Harlem Renaissance.

E.B. Du Bois: The Burden of Double Consciousness

W.E.B. Du Bois, a scholar, activist, and one of the most influential intellectuals of the 20th century, offered a profoundly insightful analysis of racial identity through his concept of Double Consciousness.

This concept, articulated in his seminal work "The Souls of Black Folk," describes the internal conflict experienced by Black individuals who are forced to view themselves through the eyes of a prejudiced white society.

Du Bois argued that Black Americans are constantly aware of how they are perceived by others, leading to a sense of alienation and a divided self.

Du Bois's emphasis on racial inequality and social justice stood in contrast to Hurston's focus on cultural pride and self-affirmation.

While Hurston sought to celebrate the richness and complexity of Black life, Du Bois aimed to dismantle the structures of racism and inequality that perpetuated Black oppression.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge points of convergence between the two. Both sought to uplift the race in their unique ways.

Both sought to empower Black individuals, albeit through different means – Hurston through cultural affirmation and Du Bois through political and social reform.

Other Voices: A Chorus of Perspectives

Beyond Hughes and Du Bois, the Harlem Renaissance was enriched by a multitude of voices, each offering a unique perspective on racial identity.

Nella Larsen, for example, explored themes of racial ambiguity and the psychological toll of discrimination in her novels "Quicksand" and "Passing."

Her protagonists grapple with questions of identity and belonging as they navigate the complexities of a racially stratified society.

Claude McKay, another prominent figure, addressed issues of racial injustice and Black resistance in his poems and novels.

His work often reflected a sense of anger and defiance in the face of oppression.

These diverse voices, along with those of other writers, artists, and intellectuals, contributed to a complex and multifaceted dialogue on racial identity, reflecting the richness and diversity of the Black experience during the Harlem Renaissance.

The contrasting perspectives of Hurston, Hughes, Du Bois, Larsen, and McKay collectively illuminate the complexities of navigating racial identity during a pivotal moment in American history. Their works continue to resonate today, prompting us to reflect on the enduring challenges and triumphs of the Black experience.

Context is Key: The Historical and Social Landscape of the Era

Hurston's celebration of Black culture and individual identity was not the only voice resonating within the vibrant intellectual landscape of the Harlem Renaissance. To gain a fuller appreciation of the era's discourse on racial identity, it is essential to consider the pervasive historical and social forces that molded the experiences and perspectives of Black Americans. This section delves into the historical and social contexts that significantly shaped the discourse on racial identity during Hurston's time, including the Harlem Renaissance itself, the enduring legacy of slavery, and key sociological concepts that sought to explain and address racial dynamics.

The Harlem Renaissance: A Crucible of Black Identity

The Harlem Renaissance, a flourishing period of artistic and intellectual activity among African Americans in the 1920s and 1930s, served as a crucial crucible for the formation and expression of Black identity. This cultural movement, centered in Harlem, New York City, provided a platform for Black writers, artists, musicians, and intellectuals to challenge racial stereotypes, celebrate their cultural heritage, and assert their agency in a society that had long denied them full citizenship.

The Renaissance was more than just an artistic outpouring; it was a deliberate effort to redefine Black identity on Black terms. Rejecting minstrel stereotypes and embracing African roots, artists sought to portray the multifaceted experiences of Black life, from the joys of community to the struggles against racism and discrimination. This period of cultural efflorescence fostered a sense of collective identity and pride that resonated far beyond the borders of Harlem.

Through literature, art, and music, the Harlem Renaissance fostered critical conversations about race, identity, and social justice. Writers like Langston Hughes and Zora Neale Hurston explored the complexities of Black identity, challenged racial stereotypes, and articulated the aspirations of a generation seeking equality and self-determination. The movement challenged prevailing narratives of racial inferiority and celebrated the richness and resilience of Black culture.

The Enduring Shadow of the American South

The legacy of slavery and the Jim Crow South cast a long and oppressive shadow over the lives of Black Americans during the Harlem Renaissance and beyond. The dehumanizing institution of slavery had left an indelible mark on the collective psyche, perpetuating systemic inequalities and shaping the social, economic, and political realities of Black communities.

Even after emancipation, the Jim Crow South maintained a rigid system of racial segregation and discrimination, denying Black people basic rights and opportunities. Black Americans were subjected to pervasive violence, disenfranchisement, and economic exploitation. This history of oppression profoundly influenced the experiences and perspectives of Black individuals, shaping their sense of self and their relationship to the larger society.

The realities of the Jim Crow South informed the creative works of many Harlem Renaissance artists, who sought to expose the injustices of racial segregation and advocate for social and political change. Writers like Richard Wright and Zora Neale Hurston explored the psychological and social consequences of racism, depicting the struggles and triumphs of Black individuals navigating a hostile and discriminatory environment.

Double Consciousness and the Burden of Representation

W.E.B. Du Bois's concept of Double Consciousness, articulated in his seminal work The Souls of Black Folk, provides a crucial lens for understanding the psychological complexities of racial identity in America. Du Bois described Double Consciousness as the sense of "always looking at one's self through the eyes of others, of measuring one's soul by the tape of a world that looks on in amused contempt and pity."

This concept highlights the internal conflict experienced by Black individuals as they navigate a society that simultaneously recognizes and devalues their existence. Black Americans are forced to grapple with two conflicting identities: their own self-perception and the distorted image reflected back to them by a racist society.

Linked to this is the concept of Racial Uplift, an ideology prevalent during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for the advancement of the Black race through education, economic development, and moral improvement. While intended to combat negative stereotypes and promote Black progress, racial uplift could also place undue pressure on Black individuals to conform to white middle-class norms and expectations.

The burden of representation, often placed upon Black artists and intellectuals, further complicated the negotiation of racial identity. Black writers, for instance, were frequently expected to represent the entirety of the Black experience, which could be a limiting and often unrealistic expectation. These sociological and historical pressures exerted significant influence on the artistic and intellectual output of the Harlem Renaissance, shaping the perspectives and creative choices of writers like Zora Neale Hurston and her contemporaries.

Echoes in the Present: Racial Identity in Modern Discourse

Hurston's celebration of Black culture and individual identity was not the only voice resonating within the vibrant intellectual landscape of the Harlem Renaissance. To gain a fuller appreciation of the era's discourse on racial identity, it is essential to consider the pervasive historical and social context. We must then explore how these enduring themes continue to find expression and evolution in contemporary works.

How are contemporary Black writers and artists engaging with, challenging, and expanding upon the groundwork laid by Hurston and her contemporaries? This section bridges the temporal gap, illuminating the throughlines that connect past struggles and triumphs with present-day explorations of racial identity.

Contemporary Black Writers and Artists: A Tapestry of Voices

Contemporary Black writers and artists stand on the shoulders of giants like Hurston, Hughes, and Du Bois. They inherit a legacy of both oppression and resilience, and their work reflects this complex inheritance in diverse and compelling ways. These contemporary voices explore similar themes as their predecessors, but often with fresh perspectives shaped by the unique challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

Fiction: Authors such as Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Colson Whitehead, and Ta-Nehisi Coates delve into the complexities of race, identity, and belonging in their novels and essays. Adichie's exploration of cultural identity in a globalized world, Whitehead's unflinching portrayal of historical trauma, and Coates's poignant reflections on race and American identity contribute to a rich and multifaceted literary landscape.

Poetry: Poets like Claudia Rankine, Tracy K. Smith, and Terrance Hayes use language to confront issues of racial injustice, police brutality, and the ongoing struggle for equality. Their work is often characterized by its raw emotional power, its unflinching gaze at the realities of racism, and its innovative use of form and language.

Visual Arts: Visual artists such as Kara Walker, Kehinde Wiley, and Amy Sherald offer powerful visual commentary on race, representation, and history. Walker's provocative silhouettes, Wiley's reimagining of classical portraiture with Black subjects, and Sherald's intimate portraits of contemporary Black Americans challenge conventional notions of beauty, power, and identity.

Compared to Hurston's time, there is an increased emphasis on intersectionality, acknowledging the complex interplay of race with gender, sexuality, class, and other social categories. While Hurston focused primarily on the Black experience, contemporary artists often explore the nuances of multiple identities and the ways in which they shape individual experiences.

Black Intellectuals and Scholars: Shaping the Discourse

Contemporary Black intellectuals and scholars play a crucial role in shaping the discourse on racial identity. They provide critical analyses of race, racism, and inequality, drawing on a range of theoretical frameworks and empirical research.

Critical Race Theory: Critical Race Theory (CRT), developed by legal scholars such as Derrick Bell and Kimberlé Crenshaw, examines how race and racism are embedded in legal systems and social structures. CRT has become a central framework for understanding systemic racism and its impact on Black communities.

Sociology and Cultural Studies: Sociologists and cultural studies scholars such as Patricia Hill Collins, Henry Louis Gates Jr., and Cornel West offer insightful analyses of race, class, and culture. Collins's work on Black feminist thought, Gates's exploration of Black literary traditions, and West's philosophical reflections on race and identity contribute to a deeper understanding of the complexities of Black life.

Psychology: Psychologists such as Claude Steele and Jennifer Eberhardt explore the psychological effects of racism and stereotypes on Black individuals. Steele's work on stereotype threat and Eberhardt's research on implicit bias highlight the subtle ways in which racism can impact cognitive performance and social interactions.

These scholars build upon the foundations laid by earlier intellectuals like Du Bois, but they also challenge and refine existing theories. They incorporate new perspectives and methodologies to address the evolving challenges of race and inequality in the 21st century.

Building on the Past: An Enduring Legacy

The work of Hurston and her contemporaries continues to resonate with contemporary Black writers, artists, and intellectuals. Their explorations of racial identity, cultural heritage, and the struggle for equality provide a foundation upon which contemporary voices build.

The themes explored by Hurston – self-discovery, cultural pride, and the complexities of Black life in America – remain central to contemporary discussions of race. However, today's discussions also grapple with new challenges, such as the rise of mass incarceration, the persistence of racial bias in the digital age, and the ongoing struggle for racial justice in the face of systemic inequality.

The enduring relevance of Hurston's work lies in its ability to illuminate the human experience across time and space. By exploring the nuances of Black identity, she provided a powerful counter-narrative to the dominant stereotypes of her era. Her legacy continues to inspire contemporary artists and scholars to challenge injustice, celebrate Black culture, and strive for a more equitable future. The conversation is ongoing, the voices are multiplying, and the quest for a deeper understanding of racial identity remains as vital as ever.

So, yeah, diving into Zora's essay and thinking about it today really made me consider what it means to own your identity, your story, and all the shades in between. It's not always easy, and the world definitely still has its moments, but ultimately, how it feels to be the colored me is about embracing that vibrant mix, celebrating the heritage, and confidently stepping into the future, knowing you're a beautiful, complex, and powerful part of the tapestry. What do you think?