Myths and Facts
or
Facts and Feelings?
This working title for this book project is a bit problematic.
The idea of myths suggests something that is not ‘true’. Something that is a part of folklore, usually involving supernatural and celestial beings. The kind of ‘myth’ we are supposed to be dealing with here though is like:
Slaves were kept in caves in Redcliffe.
or
Blacks were sold on Blackboy Hill.
Blackboy Hill on Port Cities website
While I could not say that this is absolutely untrue, I am aware that established historical orthodoxy on the subjects suggest that such things were certainly not the norm.
The other kind of ‘myth’ we are dealing with is
‘That’s such a long time ago, let’s move on’.
Usually that comes from a feeling that we should change the subject and not talk about this anymore. We’ve learned over the last few years that it’s important to acknowledge these feelings. It’s not a ‘myth’, it’s an opinion and since it’s accompanied by an emotional charge, then there is a reality to it. Any book on Bristol and transatlantic slavery, published now, addressing popular prominent ideas about the subject should touch on such common feelings and ideas too we feel.
How long is ‘too long’ and what is meant my ‘move on’ are some arguable points right there. But such ideas are common. It’s difficult for people not get agitated or uncomfortable when exploring this subject. Is it like talking about the Nazi implemented Holocaust in Germany? It would be great to see our capacity for such conversation in Bristol to mature. And it is completely possible But first there is the need for the alleviation of much ignorance.
Knowledge will lead to understanding and hopefully some shifts in feeling. Like it or not our thoughts and feelings do impact on our realities today. Even when something has come out of nothing like Tracy thought that Brian said some stuff about her. It’s still going to affect how Tracy and Brian relate to each other.
This book, if anything is to be added to the dialogue in the city must address FEELINGS. It must enhance the dialogue. Especially after all the fireworks from the Abolition 200 moment has long sizzled out, gone soggy and got stamped into the streets of yesterday.
