I am human. I am messy. I'm not trying to be an example. I am not trying to be perfect. I am not trying to say I have all the answers. I am not trying to say I'm right. I am just trying - trying to support what I believe in, trying to do some good in this world, trying to make some noise with my writing while also being myself.
Roxane GayDonโt flirt, have sex, or engage in emotional affairs with your friendsโ significant others. This shouldnโt need to be said, but it needs to be said. That significant other is an asshole, and you donโt want to be involved with an asshole whoโs used goods. If you want to be with an asshole, get a fresh asshole of your very own. They are abundant.
Roxane GayI am fine with my books being categorized as African-American literature but I hope they are also considered Haitian-American literature and American literature. All of these things are part of who I am and what I write.
Roxane GayYou don't necessarily have to do anything once you acknowledge your privilege. You don't have to apologize for it. You need to understand the extent of your privilege, the consequences of your privilege, and remain aware that people who are different from you move through and experience the world in ways you might never know anything about.
Roxane Gay