Yaa Gyasi’s novel “Homegoing” is a profound exploration of the African diaspora and its lasting impact on descendants, particularly in America. The narrative weaves through generations, starting from the 18th century in Ghana to present-day America, illustrating how the legacy of slavery and colonialism has shaped the experiences of black individuals across centuries. The book begins with the story of two half-sisters, Effia and Esi, unknown to each other, born into different villages in Ghana. Effia marries a British colonizer, while Esi is sold into slavery in America. Their divergent paths set the stage for a tale that unfolds over generations, showing the starkly different trajectories of their descendants due to the color of their skin …show more content…
Quotes from “Homegoing” resonate with CRT’s perspective, such as when a character reflects on the enduring nature of racism: “History is Storytelling. What’s remembered becomes history.” This echoes CRT’s assertion that the dominant narrative often overlooks the experiences and histories of marginalized groups, perpetuating a cycle of inequality. The novel also touches on the concept of intersectionality, another key component of CRT, which examines how various forms of oppression intersect and affect individuals. For instance, the character Ness, a descendant of Esi, faces not only racial oppression but also the brutality of gendered violence and the struggle for autonomy over her body and labor. “Homegoing” answers the question “what is it like to be black in America today?” by showing that the past is not merely the past but a living, breathing part of every present moment. The characters’ lives are shaped by the historical forces of slavery and segregation, which continue to influence their identities, opportunities, and societal