The Water Dancer

“For memory is the chariot, and memory is the way, and memory is bridge from the curse of slavery to freedom.'“ - The Water Dancer

Acknowledging the significant contribution of world literature in our lives, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has identified April 23rd as World Book Day. In celebration of this day, it is fitting to highlight a favorite of September Set, The Water Dancer. Ta’Nehisi Coates’ first work of fiction involved far more than a good read. It involved a journey full of reflection and comprehensive analysis of American history.

With audience participation in the taping of Oprah’s Book Club interview with Ta-Nehisi Coates (aired on Apple TV Plus) shortly following the book release in September, to a Black History Month finale with a visit (for the first time) to a plantation in Virginia; September Set was immersed into a voyage that highlighted the significance of recollection, the reality of what’s forgotten and the impact of neglecting history.

Ultimately, every great work of literature is successful in taking readers on a journey. The Water Dancer transports you to a time in early American history (the enslavement of African-Americans) that shouldn’t be forgotten as it emphasizes not only the gift of memory but also the necessity of memory to move forward in life. It is remarkable how Ta-Nehisi Coates can tap into something so deeply personal for many through storytelling. While a work of fiction, The Water Dancer gives a feel of non-fiction due to the high level of historical content that required ten years of research by the author. The historical reality full of pain, horror, revelation, strength and love speaks through the pages. Thus, readers find themselves on a rollercoaster ride not only with the book’s characters in mind but also with the memory of one’s own personal experience and memory, as one can’t ignore connections to present day realities.

While visiting former US President Thomas Jefferson’s home, Montecello, (not only in harmony with Na-Nehisi Coates’ journey but per his recommendation) an illustration of how easily the memory can be altered to change the narrative when the full truth is unspoken was observed. During this introductory plantation visit, the last day of February, feelings of grief and loneliness were felt as the history presented was delivered in a glossy package that contained a stench that was presumed unnoticed. The stench of horror with the realities of slavery were glaring, despite the multi-century attempts to cover up, forget, and gloss over it’s memory.

Ta’Nehisi Coates reminds us that memory serves as a benefit to understand ourselves while guiding us well into the future. The Water Dancer is a gem that gives us all no choice but to remember the past and it’s significance in the present. It offers a gift to the world and we must accept it by sharing the truth about the past and never forgetting. Happy World Book Day!