“In my retelling of the story, Dinah finds her voice. The Red Tent is told entirely from her perspective and the point of view of the women around her.” This is an excerpt from the author of The Red Tent, Anita Diamant’s web page.
Although I an avid reader of non-fiction, and well-for the most part also quite irreligious, The Red Tent is one of my favorite books. What stands out to me most is the accurate portrayal of women. No matter where we are throughout history, across socio-economics and race, we form-against all odds, very cohesive bonds with other women.
As my daughter begins to make friends, I am reminded of the girls- now women, who have shared in the shaping of my story, and who’ve helped me find my voice through the many years, and much cacophony. There have been those whom I’ve met only once and never saw again, those who are no longer with us whom I’ll likely never see again, and the ones whom I’ve never actually met, but they are a part of me; imaginary female characters that I created whilst growing up as an only child.
These thoughts intrigued and inspired me so, that I had to open the discussion up here, and ask you all about the women in your life. Off the top of your head, or perhaps your ear is still warm from your last phone call, who has been an integral part of your life, who knows your story better than you, who’s in your tent?
I’d like to perhaps take this further and feature stories of friendship here from time to time. As mothers, and daughters, wives, lovers, sisters, cousins and aunts, I know there are a bevy of stories and lessons to be told and behold. If you’re at all open to the idea of sharing, please indicate it in the comments below and I’ll contact you for an interview at a later date.
The artwork featured in this post has been featured with the artists’, John & Robbyn Runyon’s explicit consent. “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is available for purchase from their shop Frivolous Tendencies .
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
This is a great question! When I was growing up, my dad always told me that my mom and my sister were my best friends. Over the years I have had many best friends, but I must say that my mother and my sister have in fact been my best friends. The ones who know me and love me still. At the same time, there’s Traci, Glenda, and Tammy who are women, in addition to my mom and sister, that know me so well that simply talking with them makes me feel safe and understood. I adore each of them.
I imagine Jennifer, that you are a wonderful friend. My grandmother is my best friend and the obvious generation gap has proven an amazing resource for me through the years. Wisdom is timeless.
t. allen-mercado´s last blog ..Is It Thursday, Already?
You couldn’t have written this at a more perfect time! Fortunately, I am surrounded by a collective a women who have transcended the boundaries of friendship. They are my family, my sisters, aunts and second mothers to my daughter. I would love to tell of their love and support =).
I look forward to speaking more in depth about your collective. I’m especially curious about your role amongst the group. I am the…well, you guess…
t. allen-mercado´s last blog ..Is It Thursday, Already?
I am very proud to say I have very little woman bestfriends, but the ones I do hold are very dear to me. My mom is on the top of the list. Even as a child my mom has always been my confidant and cheerleader. Olufemi John and Nicole Porter are the names of the two of the closest woman besides my neice and my daughter who are learning to be my bestfriend. I have a whole bunch of woman who have been big positive forces in my life that i have met, hanged with and kept company with. I thank God for all the lovely experiences I went through with each and everyone of these beautiful women.
It’s all about quality Frances, agreed. When you have such powerful forces in your corner, you only need a few. I’m glad that you and Femi are still close, you’ve been friends for years.
t. allen-mercado´s last blog ..Is It Thursday, Already?