Black Skin White Masks by Frantz Fanon was the topic of discussion in our latest book club meeting. This literary criticism looks at the Black identity and examines the Black psyche within a white world. The book club enjoyed the topic but was disappointed with the book, as it was very difficult for the members to read. One member admitted that as he read each page he found his mind drifting to the point that he had no idea what he actually read. This was the experience of many of the other members, they found the language disjointed and too scientific. Another noted that he understood the author’s analysis better when skimming through the book than when he actually started to read it.
Despite the difficulty with the book the average rating was still 3.5 out of 5. We began the discussion by debating the validity of psychiatry. For the most part members thought that it was necessary to study the science of the mind. Especially the Black mind in relation to white people. A few members expressed that we are Blacks in white face on a subconscious level. Whenever we use the professional white voice on the phone or at work we are wearing that white mask. Since we live in a European dominated society our ideals and goals are reflective of what whites deem successful. They tell us what success is, what beauty is etc. and we strive to fulfill these ideals. Other Blacks may do it consciously desperately trying to find acceptance in the white world or the world of the dictator. We found this to be one of Fanon’s strongest points throughout the book.
The question then came about how to change from a Eurocentric mindset to one that reflects our African heritage. One member relayed a story of some people she knew who decided to leave North America, learn an African tongue and live in a remote area within an African country. Other members felt that idea was not very practical for everyone. For those who can’t just pickup and move must remain and master the English language or language of our oppressor. We must master the culture in which we live and use it to our advantage. Although we live within European culture we can do away with European thought.
We wondered if it were possible for Blacks to ignore their skin colour and just live as human beings. Most members thought it would be nice but understood that Europeans will never let you forget who you are and what your place is. Usually the Blacks who would like to forget their race are the ones who are ashamed of it. They would rather feel part of the majority even if the majority hates who he or she is. It was said that we need to reinforce ourselves with images that reflect our heritage. We need to have pride in who we are. To be just ‘human’ can be very dangerous because those who talk of just being ‘human’ actually just want to be white.
The final topic of discussion dealt with whites that use Black slang or patois. Is it ok or is it offensive? Members admitted that in some cases it could be offensive when they use it to talk down to you, as if they’re belittling you then trying to meet you at that level. Other times they do it because Blacks are very trendy in speech. We found it funny that in the boardroom we Blacks will speak their language to be professional while they will try to speak our language in general to be cool.
Black Skin White Masks is an important read, we recommend it with a disclaimer. Be prepared for a difficult read, but it’s worth it.
