“The Color Purple”: A Powerful Work of US Literature

Over the past few weeks, I’ve featured two books on Black history and experiences — one focused on modern Britain and the other one on slavery-era Brazil.

Now, it is time for an American classic: “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker. What a book!

“The Color Purple” explores the lives of two sisters in the American South during the early 1900s, Celie and Nettie, who were separated at a young age.

The beginning of the book is especially hard — it depicts abuse, domestic physical and sexual violence, and an overwhelming sense of despair. To be honest, this triggering start almost made me put the book down for good.

But I’m glad I kept reading — the story quickly absorbs you, and you won’t be able to put the book down.

It’s beautifully written, striking a unique balance between anguish and happiness, sadness and hope.

The main character, Celie, goes through a remarkable transformation — from a severely abused individual to a confident, assertive woman. The story is told through a series of letters she writes, allowing the readers to witness her transformation firsthand. Initially, she addresses her letters to “Dear God”, but overtime, she shifts to writing to her sister, “Dear Nettie”.

Alice Walker put significant effort into the stylization of the story: Celie’s letters are written in a voice of someone who is illiterate and never formally learnt grammar — and they are filled with incredible charm. I’ve seen comments suggesting that Celie might be one of the strongest, most captivating characters in modern literature — and I would definitely agree.

I do not post book recommendations without a beer review — why would I, when books and beers are two of my favorite things?

December is here, which means it’s time for winter beers! ❄️

Today’s pick is K-9 Winter Warmer by the US-based Flying Dog Brewery.

Just look at these ingredients: cardamom, vanilla bean, and cocoa. If that doesn’t put you in the Xmas spirit, I don’t know what will.