I am sincerely grateful for your time for reading this issue of The Taborian. Many thanks to Martin Keaveney, Rena Kim, Prabha Girish, Allison Whittenberg, Ernest Langston, and Amari Pleasant for sharing their written works with the world! If this is your first visit, welcome to The Taborian. If you are a returning reader, thank you for your continued support. Please consider subscribing. Your subscription helps us continue to share fabulous works and cover server and other expenses. Also, please follow our Facebook page, subscribe to our email list, and share The Taborian with your family and friends. Now, let’s dive into my quick reflection on a cultural moment, my interpretation of this issue’s cover art, and a jazz album recommendation.
The Moment
There is this moment, my heart raced with anticipation. The date was September 11, 1999. My eyes fixated on a black girl, beads adorning her swinging braids. And then, her exuberant scream echoes as she stares with disbelief, while embodying confidence…the kind that defies the expected norm. Before this moment, the mainstream questioned whether such boldness belonged to a girl like her. But she knew her place. A place of determination, confidence, and joy. A place built from years of nurturing by her loving, committed parents. That girl? A 17-year-old Serena Williams. The moment? Her triumphant victory at the 1999 US Open Women’s Tennis Championship.
Serena shattered stereotypes with her iconic win. Her image of a black girl with braids and beads resonated with girls who saw themselves in her. Serena’s authenticity, her unapologetic self, irked the envious status quo, but brought the audacity of hope and pride to her community of supporters. With her family’s encouragement, she defied conformity and blazed her own trail. Her 1999 U.S. Open victory remains etched in history, a defining moment that transcends sports and reminds us that barriers are meant to be broken.
My Interpretation
Our cover art for this issue is Self Portrait, a watercolor, charcoal, and graphite on paper drawing created by Samuel J. Brown, Jr. My interpretation of this piece is a man looking at himself while his reflection looks outward into the world. What do you see in yourself that others’ see in you?
What’s your interpretation?
Jazz It Up
For those who know me, I’m a jazz enthusiast who deeply appreciates this uniquely complex musical art form, born in America. Often referred to as America’s classical music, jazz holds a special place in my heart. I hope you enjoy reading this issue while enjoying my jazz album recommendation Maiden Voyage by Herbie Hancock.
Random Fact
Sudan has more pyramids than Egypt. Sudan boasts around 255 pyramids versus Egypt’s 138 pyramids.
Thank you for supporting The Taborian!
DL
