I'm not entangled in shaping my work according to other people's views of how I should have done it

I'm not entangled in shaping my work according to other people's views of how I should have done it

Toni Morrison, the renowned American novelist, once famously said, “I'm not entangled in shaping my work according to other people's views of how I should have done it.” This statement encapsulates Morrison's fierce independence and commitment to her own artistic vision. Throughout her career, Morrison consistently defied expectations and refused to conform to the demands of critics or readers. Instead, she followed her own creative instincts and produced some of the most powerful and influential works of literature of the 20th century.

Morrison's refusal to bend to external pressures is evident in her writing style, which is characterized by its boldness, originality, and unapologetic honesty. She was not afraid to tackle difficult and controversial subjects, such as race, gender, and identity, and she did so with a fearless and uncompromising voice. In novels like “Beloved” and “The Bluest Eye,” Morrison delved deep into the complexities of the African American experience, shedding light on the painful legacy of slavery and the enduring effects of racism. Her work challenged readers to confront uncomfortable truths and to see the world from a perspective that was often marginalized or ignored.

Morrison's commitment to her own artistic vision also extended to her approach to storytelling. She experimented with narrative structure, language, and symbolism, pushing the boundaries of traditional literary forms and creating a unique and distinctive voice. Her prose is lyrical and poetic, filled with rich imagery and vivid descriptions that transport the reader to another world. Morrison's writing is not always easy or straightforward, but it is always powerful and evocative, inviting readers to think deeply and engage with the text on a profound level.