Sketching in the Historical Erasures with Words

Growing up in the Deep South, I had a profound sense of exile. That exile cam because of what I saw as historical erasure on the landscape, in the history books, in the erecting of monuments – all those places that are there to remind and tell us about the past,...

Happy New Year!

It’s January 1st, 2012. It’s Sunday, and here in Virginia, the sky is clouding over for what I hope might be a little snow this week. I brought in the New Year with a quiet, happiness carried by good friendship and new hopes. I pray that this next year...

Let’s Stop Interrupting

Last night, I had the privilege of dining with a group of people I greatly respect. At some point in the evening, the conversation turned to my book and race relations and history. We got heated – as these conversations always will – because we all felt so...

Let's Stop Interrupting

Last night, I had the privilege of dining with a group of people I greatly respect. At some point in the evening, the conversation turned to my book and race relations and history. We got heated – as these conversations always will – because we all felt so...

It’s All About the Story

He bought a teapot. In 1866. At the auction to settle his former master’s debts. Berthier bought a teapot. For just over $2.00. That’s all I know of the facts. Yet, it is enough. Enough to craft a story. Enough to frame a character, to see him standing...