Abstract
Reading "Sonny's Blues" instilled, or deepened, my passion for words and imagery. I really enjoyed reading and analyzing the narrative's content and connecting how certain words, phrases, and figurative language represented more than what was written at face value. The meanings of these literary elements are what captured me and held me hostage to the bewilderment in James Baldwin's mind as he created the piece and to understand how he could create such a painting of words. I see this in my everyday life; whether it is writing an essay or some form of creative expression, I crave to design a creation that has as much impact on the audience as Baldwin did for me. As a first-gen student, I no longer classify myself solely as the first in my family to attend a four year university, but as someone who strives to create an image or expression that will impact my growth as well as the growth of others. This same desire for creativity has been implemented in every aspect of my life. I seek creation and meaning in life, always reminding myself that what is seen with the naked eye is not always a 2D plane, but 3D with high definition and more. All things are more complex and deeper than they appear. I am ready and willing to add definition to being a first-gen student, because we are all more than first-generation.
Recommended Citation
Munnings, Kelsie
(2014)
"Listening Past Your Suffering,"
First-Gen Voices: Creative and Critical Narratives on the First-Generation College Experience: Vol. 1:
Iss.
1, Article 20.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/fgv/vol1/iss1/20
