Meocha Belle 6/4
As I cross the Atlantic Ocean, my mind drifts back to when my ancestors traveled these same waters. For them, it was not voluntary and were not fed constantly and given special accommodations as I have been receiving. My decision to leave was solely that of my own, and can only imagine the hurt and anguish that came with being forced out of your home.
I am ever grateful for this opportunity to go to Paris, France and learn more about the African Diaspora and the French culture. Reading From Harlem to Paris: Black American Writers in France 1840-1980 and Paris Noir: African American in the City of Light, I have already begun to expand my knowledge on the two. I know that by the end of the program, I will be well versed in studies of the African Diaspora on both global and local scales.
After reviewing the syllabus once more, I cannot wait until we get to all of the texts and learn about the many past and present subjects, artists, writers, and movements within and around Paris. Prior to my flight taking off, I had to force myself not to begin reading the course books as I received them and settled with reading their jackets, outside of the preliminary readings that were to be done.
I anticipate to learn a surplus amount of knowledge and for inside grow, as a few Paris Noir alumni have told me I will. My eyes and ears are open and hope that I gain and give to and from the group and experiences. I know the first day of class will be an experience within itself at Cafe de' Flore, where James Baldwin frequented and wrote!
~Paris Noir 2010
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