In Ta-Nehisi Coates’ new novel, memory is a superpower

In this interview, Jeffrey Brown talks with Ta-Nehisi Coates about his novel, The Water Dancer. The book, set in 19th century Virginia, explores themes of slavery, memory, and myth. Coates discusses the importance of storytelling in challenging historical myths and the extensive research he conducted. He highlights the novel's focus on family separation and the power of memory. Coates also reflects on the cultural shifts in how African American stories are told and perceived, expressing optimism about the future.

What is the primary setting of Ta-Nehisi Coates' novel 'The Water Dancer'?

• A 20th-century urban city

• A futuristic dystopian world

• A medieval European village

• A plantation in 19th-century Virginia

According to Coates, why can't the argument about the myths of the Old South be won with just documents?

• Because documents are too complex to understand

• Because people hold onto myths rather than facts

• Because myths are more entertaining

• Because documents are often lost

How does Coates describe the role of myth in storytelling?

• As a means to entertain without purpose

• As a method to avoid historical accuracy

• As a tool to give life to historical facts

• As a way to distort history

What aspect of slavery does Coates highlight as particularly striking in his research?

• The economic impact

• The role of religion

• Family separation

• The architectural style of plantations

What unique superpower does the protagonist in 'The Water Dancer' possess?

• Telepathy

• Memory

• Flight

• Invisibility

What shift does Coates observe in cultural narratives as a result of African American artists' contributions?

• A reduction in artistic quality

• A change in who is seen as heroes

• A greater focus on European history

• A decline in historical accuracy

What does Coates suggest is necessary for moving forward from the traumas of enslavement?

• Forgetting the past

• Focusing solely on the future

• Embracing and remembering history

• Ignoring cultural history