Happy black history month! How are we 11 days deep into October already?! And how has this month, (let alone this whole year), been for you so far?
For me, it has been both productive and overwhelming! I started my Creative Writing masters this month, so I’ve been adjusting to the postgrad lifestyle, socially distanced of course! I’ve also been reading some novels by iconic black writers of our time. From the likes of James Baldwin to Maya Angelou, I’m finding inspiration for my own writing too.
To mark the significance of black history month, I started off October with a poem! It’s a reminder that black people are still on a long journey for equality. A journey towards compassion and respect, that should already be given. Yes we are seeing small steps towards progression, but so much more needs to be the focus, to see real change. For us and for our future generations.
Have a read below, and check out my Instagram for more poetry.
I thought I would highlight a handful of Black British writers whose words have impacted my views on life. From my teenage years to adulthood, here are a few honourable mentions:
Benjamin Zephaniah. His poetry and writing are still being used for discussion and context in the UK school curriculum today. He inspired me, as I’m sure he did many others, to want to write more poetry. He’s achieved many accolades in his career, including honorary doctorates from reputable universities across the country. He uses his influence to speak up on racial injustices, and causes he is passionate about, which continues to motivate others.
Malorie Blackman OBE, is a woman whose writing is still currently at the forefront for many young readers. With over 50 children’s books under her belt, her talent is unmatched. This year a tv series was released called ‘Noughts and Crosses’, based off of Blackman’s novel series with the same name. Her storytelling on the themes of racism, prejudice, violence and love are shown in an alternate history. Black people are the rulers with privilege, whilst white people the minority. Both an interesting watch and read.
Bernardine Evaristo. Having written seven novels beforehand, her most recent piece, ‘Girl, Woman, Other’, won her the Booker Prize in 2019. She created history as the first ever Black British winner of the prize! (Which we love to see!) This recognition definitely encourages black writers to keep going! Opportunities and accolades are not out of our reach. ‘Girl, Woman, Other’, tells the story of the lives of twelve characters, who all describe their experiences of being black in the UK, throughout the decades. From facing racial stigmas to confronting stereotypes in their identity, it’s a vibrant and insightful read.
Candice Carty-Williams, is one I look forward to reading more of in the future! Her debut novel ‘Queenie’ was such a success, winning the Book of the Year award for 2020. Again we see another black woman helping lead the way for contemporary black writers. Increasing the amount of black writers in the industry, and showing that our writing is just as relatable too. Her novel was one of the funniest I have read in a long time! I’m happy to be able to connect with the main character, and explore her situation with her.
What other black UK writers have you read? What do you recommend to read next?
-Seraphina
Words By Seraphina 