"As I see it, you are living with something that you keep hidden deep inside. Something heavy. I felt it from the first time I met you. You have a strong gaze, as if you have made up your mind about something. To tell you the truth, I myself carry such things around inside. Heavy things. That is how I can see it in you."

"But what of black women?… I most sincerely doubt if any other race of women could have brought its fineness up through so devilish a fire."

"It’s not your job to like me – it’s mine."