Lecture Notes: "How It Feels to Be Colored Me" by Zora Neale Hurston

Introduction

• Hurston reflects on her identity as an African American
• Emphasizes she offers no excuses regarding her racial identity
• Humorously notes her absence of Native American ancestry

Early Life in Eatonville, Florida

• Grew up in an all-black town, Eatonville
• Encountered white people as tourists passing through
• Experienced interactions with white tourists with curiosity and friendliness
• Enjoyed performing for tourists, unlike other town residents

Transition to Jacksonville

• At age 13, left Eatonville for school in Jacksonville
• Realized a change in racial identity and perception
• Transition from local identity to being perceived as a "colored" girl

Views on Race and Identity

• Hurston does not feel "tragically colored"
• Rejects the idea of being burdened by her racial identity
• Believes the world is won by the strong, regardless of race
• Views her history of slavery as a stepping stone to her current American identity
• Sees an opportunity for glory and adventure despite racial challenges

Experiences of Racial Contrast

• Feels her "colored" identity most when in predominantly white environments
• Gives examples of Barnard College and social settings like cabarets
• Describes how jazz music draws out her African roots

Perception of Others and Her Identity

• Sometimes feels racially isolated or highlighted
• At times, feels beyond racial identity, embracing her unique self
• Emphasizes her identity as a part of the larger American soul

Conclusion

• Occasionally feels discrimination, but it does not anger her
• Sees herself as part of a diverse human experience
• Uses metaphor of bags filled with miscellaneous items to describe humanity's shared aspects

Reflection

• Ends on a contemplative note about the nature of identity and unity

[Applause]