Although it was raining outside, it was all smiles, sunshine and rainbows inside as Kim welcomed U.S. G.I.R.L.S. into the halls of the Lee-Cousins Building of Edward Waters College to discuss "Sula" by Toni Morrison.
As we entered the building, there were students at every corner to direct us to the next turn to and from the elevator into the spacious conference room on the 3rd floor. As we deposited our items to be donated to the student's "Campus Clothing" closet, we were met with the aroma of the caterer's luncheon warming in chaffing dishes, permeating the room.
Kim briefly explained to each of us as we entered the space that we would be directed to a "green" room for a video taping and that a student would be taking photos of us....so, JayBee gets a break. Good thing too, because my camera was not working properly and the photographer student had to assist us with the camera setting..
Once we all arrived,, Kim began with the introductions and blessing by Dianne and everyone began to partake of the lovely buffet.
We opened up our discussion with our thoughts on the book and Kim wanted to know if we would recommend "Sula" to other reading groups or friends. While many readers indicated that they enjoyed the book, it was basically a 70/30 split. Val indicated that she was a surface reader and really did not enjoy the writing initially, but later began to enjoy and appreciate the symbolism as well as the touches of humor.
The significance or symbolism of Sula's "rose" birthmark was interpreted from the Rorschach ink blot test to "The mark of the Beast". We also explored briefly the sexually interpretation of the bloom and the stem in literature.
Opps, time for dessert!!!!
Val and JayBee sent out an Email "Calling All Bakers" to bring desserts (if they had time) to "bake and share" to the meeting. Roz, Karen, JayBee and Bonnie heeded the call by bringing Red Velvet Cupcakes, Pound Cake, Chocolate Cake, and Blonde Brownies respectively. The Caterer proved a Red Velvet Cake. There was more than enough dessert for ALL and some to take home!!
JayBee interjected some symbolism that she "pulled" for the number "four" and just how the number was overused in the novel to indicate its intent. She also noted traces of Greek Mythology that were within the pages of "Sula".
In great detail, Eva 's decision to murder her son was discussed. Was it a 'mercy" killing to save him from himself.? Was it an act of love or one of hatred? We discussed the aspects of their Mother/Son relationship from many angles.
How does society view African-American women dating Anglo men? Are the standards different for African American men?
Roz, Celeste and Jackie gave real life examples of each and made valid points supporting each position. Bonnie also gave her interpretation on several aspects of the book from a biblical standpoint.
The act of betrayal by Sula with Jude was analysed from several angles. Inquiring minds wondered why Jude would want to have an extramarital affair with Sula after he said she was not sexually attractive. Does a women have to be sexually attractive to be sexually desirable? Does one have anything to do with the other?
Kim summed up the discussion with the ultimate premise of the book; friendship and betrayal.
Once the discussion was over, Dee introduced author Marsha Phelts, who told us about her children's book as well as her cookbook. She also brought a few books for us to purchase and she was more than happy to autograph. She also mentioned about how much she enjoyed her calendar (designed by Celeste), that was mailed to her after she sent several books (from various authors) to us last year to distribute to members and guests during our Christmas meeting.
After the meeting, we presented our items for the student's "needs" closet/. Karen presented Kim with a check from several attorneys at her law firm who wanted to support our December initiative. Kim was overwhelmed with emotion as she told us of the needs of the students on the campus and how grateful she and the students were for our support.
Kim and her students presented all members and guests with an EWC back pack that held an adorable collapse-able tote bag that folds up for easy storage.
Thank you Kim for bringing us to Florida's FIRST Historically Black College/University!! What an amazing experience and wonderful discussion. "YOU did THAT!!"
