Edwin Baiden

Reading Act I of #Macbeth, where the witches prophecy over Macbeth's life brings up the question of fate vs. free will. Are we architects of our own failures or are we just all victims of destiny. #muddybuddies

In Act I of #Macbeth Lady Macbeth's manipulation of Macbeth by questioning his manhood brings up many questions about gender role and norms as well as the idea of toxic masculity. #muddybuddies

After reading #SuzanneKeen's #ATheoryOfNarrativeEmpathy, I believe narrative empathy can be a powerful tool for social change. By exposing us to the stories of others, it can help us to see the world through their eyes and to develop a greater sense of compassion. #muddybuddies

Narrative empathy is not just about feeling sorry for fictional characters. It's about understanding and sharing their experiences, even if they are different from our own, which in turn broadens our horizons. #SuzanneKeen #ATheoryForNarrativeEmpathy #muddybuddies

In #OctaviaButler's #Bloodchild, the chilling birthing scene elucidates real-life horrors for Black women who historically faced denial of epidurals. It prompts us to face the consequences of dehumanizing practices and the need for equitable healthcare access. #muddybuddies

Octavia Butler's #Bloodchild, brings up very important questions on power dynamics and imbalances. It reminds us of examples of exploitation in marriages and draws a fine line between choice and coercion. This shows the importance of equity in relationships. #muddybuddies

It's fascinating how the book "My Flamboyant Grandson" explores the connection between personal freedom and technology. He insinuates that technology is pushing for conformity however, I firmly believe that technology is actually encouraging nonconformity. #muddybuddies

In “My Flamboyant Grandson” by George Saunders, the acceptance that the grandfather shows his grandson is something that’s lacking in a lot of families. I believe that this might be the key to a lot of broken families. #muddybuddies

John Donne's #TheFlea seems to comment on coercion between two partners. The #Flea is metaphor used by the speaker to show how they are already mingled together by blood so sexual mingling should not be a problem. #muddybuddies

#TheBalladOfTheLandlord seems to highlight the housing discrimination epidemic and how individuals of disenfranchised groups are made to live in inhospitable conditions. #muddybuddies

🎱Gwendolyn Brooks' #WeRealCool seems to elucidate the bad boy/machismo mentality plaguing teen and young adult mentality we see in today's society #toocoolforschool #muddybuddies

In Gwendolyn Brooks' #WeRealCool, there is a discussion on the interconnectedness of "being cool" and undermining one's well-being. #muddybuddies

With quotes like "...ben, jemima and me, we pose a smile, i simmer what is my name" Lucille Clifton in #CreamOfWheat highlights the identity crisis most Black individuals face in today's society. #muddybuddies

In 'Cream of Wheat,' #LucileClifton shines a spotlight on the derogatory terms within the food industry like Aunt Jemima and Rastus. It's a stark reminder of how these stereotypes have been internalized by Black individuals, leaving them feeling personless.#muddybuddies

In “Tide of Voices”, #Doty delves into the richness of human emotion and expression through poetry. Can the intersectionality of diverse backgrounds and unique forms of expression serve as a bridge for mutual understanding through poetry? #muddybuddies

🗣️Tide of Voices: Why Poetry matters Now by #Doty reflects on the power of individual voices and the essence of poetry in the globalized world. How can poetry make a difference in our very polarized society in the 21st century? #muddybuddies

With quotes like "there's a bluebird in my heart that wants to get out but I'm too tough for him", Chris Bukowski's #bluebird elucidates the Toxic Masculinity epidemic in today's society. #muddybuddies