This short book is actually a typed manuscript of Toni Morrison's speech on accepting the Nobel award for literature, and is probably only a handful of pages long (I read the ebook, so I don't have specifics). I am a fan of Morrison's gorgeous writing, and her books have intelligent stories with an emotional impact that is like a punch to the psyche, therefore I was interested to read her speech. Since this is a written version, perhaps it contains embellishments not delivered during the actual talk, but wow. Her words are eloquent and gracious, but also firm and challenging. Most of the speech involves an extended metaphor about language and storytelling, built around an old folk tale about a blind wise woman. The last section is a typical note of gratitude for the honor done her, although she did thematically connect the two portions of the speech. As I read this, I thought how wonderful it would be if all speeches were as powerful and beautifully rendered. To be sure, this is a very specific type of writing that will attract a narrow audience, but fans of Toni Morrison should take a moment to read it, the ideas within are worth the time and attention. ( )

To hear Toni Morrison speak of narrative as "one of the principle ways in which we absorb knowledge," and language as "meditation," is to enter into a miraculously new understanding of what it means to sit down with a novel, biography, book of creative nonfiction, or even a simple short story. To note that she is stating these declarations while accepting the 1993 Nobel Prize for literature before members of the Swedish Academy doubles the thrill.

For those who have found masterworks by Morrison, such as "Beloved" and "Jazz," somewhat daunting, hearing what she appreciates most about literature provides invaluable clues to what one experiences in her own literary art. The autumn-breeze whisper of her voice is an enthralling contrast to the laser heat and precision of her mind nobly at work.

Aberjhani
author of "Encyclopedia of the Harlem Renaissance"
and "Visions of a Skylark Dressed in Black" ( )