If you're passionate about diving into the rich tapestry of American literature, you might have encountered Mildred D. Taylor's powerful novel "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry." Let's explore some memorable quotes from this remarkable work that resonates with readers across generations.
"Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" is a literary gem penned by Mildred D. Taylor, first published in 1976. It stands as a cornerstone of African American literature, capturing the struggles and triumphs of a black family in the racially charged atmosphere of the American South during the Great Depression.
"There are things you can't back down on, things you gotta take a stand on." – Papa
This powerful statement by Papa encapsulates the courage and resolve that the Logan family demonstrates throughout the novel. "Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry" is a profound exploration of racial injustice and the strength of family in the face of adversity, set in 1930s Mississippi.
"Baby, we have no choice of what color we're born or who our parents are or whether we're rich or poor. What we do have is some choice over what we make of our lives once we're here." – Mama
Mama’s words to Cassie highlight themes of personal agency and dignity amidst the systemic oppression of African Americans. This novel deeply respects the integrity and resilience required to confront such realities.
"No day in all my life had ever been as cruel as this one." – Cassie Logan
Cassie's reflection on a particularly brutal day illustrates her loss of innocence and the harsh realities of growing up in a racially divided South. The narrative follows her journey of understanding and responding to racial injustices.
"The land is important. It's the only thing worth working for, worth fighting for, worth dying for." – Papa
Papa's emphasis on the importance of land reflects the broader theme of self-sufficiency and ownership as forms of empowerment against oppression. The land represents the Logan family's hope and determination to maintain their independence and dignity.
"Sometimes a person's gotta fight." – Stacey
Stacey’s remark about standing up for oneself in the face of injustice echoes the novel’s call to resist oppression actively. This sentiment is a central theme, motivating the Logan family's actions and decisions.
"As long as you remember what you believe in, then it doesn't matter what others believe." – Papa
This advice from Papa to his children underscores the novel’s focus on the strength of personal conviction and the importance of maintaining one's values, even when they are challenged by societal norms.
"Time changes things, Cassie girl, that's how it is." – Uncle Hammer
Uncle Hammer's words reflect the theme of change and progress, albeit slow, in the struggle for racial equality. The novel captures moments of both despair and hope, illustrating the dynamic nature of social and personal transformation.
"When something like this happens, you have to move fast to protect your own." – Mr. Morrison
Mr. Morrison’s pragmatic approach to threats illustrates the protective measures the black community often had to take. His presence in the Logan family is a symbol of solidarity and communal support.
"We have no choice of what color we are born, but we do have some choice in what we make of our lives." – Mama
Echoing her earlier sentiments, Mama’s statement about choice and agency reinforces the novel’s message about the dignity and power available to individuals, even in oppressive circumstances.
"I cried for T.J. For T.J. and the land." – Cassie Logan
Cassie’s emotional reflection at the end of the novel highlights the intertwining of personal and collective struggles. Her growth over the course of the story from a naive child to a more aware young adult is marked by her empathy and deepening understanding of the complexities of her world.
Download Roll of Thunder PDF Free
Read “Roll of Thunder” on PDF
Download PDF Reader Pro to quickly and easily enable “Read Mode” for a pleasant reading experience on your desktop, tablet or phone.
If you liked this collection of quotes, you will also like our list of classic romance novels, available to read about, download and to import to PDF Reader Pro, right here on our blog.
