Born: 06-25-1913
Aimé Césaire was a renowned Martinican poet, playwright, and politician, celebrated for his pivotal role in the Négritude movement, which championed black identity and cultural pride. Born in 1913 in Basse-Pointe, Martinique, his influential works, including "Cahier d'un retour au pays natal," explore themes of colonialism and liberation. Césaire's legacy extends beyond literature, as he also served as the mayor of Fort-de-France and a member of the French National Assembly.
I’m the one who’s the victim of this outrage, not you!
I don’t want to hear you talk. You’re nothing but a filthy, lying, disgusting old man!
I’m exasperated, but I’m not defeated.
I’m not your slave, Prospero, and I’m not your dog.
Freedom is within our grasp.
I hate you, Prospero, I hate you!
I am an idea, not a man!
I am neither beast nor slave!
I will not be tamed, I will not be conquered.
The time has come to take back what is rightfully ours.
I am more than the sum of your prejudices!
You think I am lesser, but I am greater in spirit than you will ever be.