The quote suggests that an individual’s perspective on a story can vary based on their cultural background and personal experiences. In this case, the speaker watched the television series "Roots" while growing up in Zimbabwe and felt it was more closely related to African history than American history. This observation highlights how people from different parts of the world might view the same piece of media through distinct cultural lenses.
The deeper meaning behind the quote lies in the way global narratives are often perceived differently depending on one’s geographical location and personal connections to the story's themes. "Roots," which chronicles the experiences of an African American family through several generations, including their capture and enslavement, is widely regarded as a seminal work in understanding American history and culture. However, it also reflects broader historical and cultural issues that transcend national boundaries. The speaker’s comment underscores the idea that while the story may be set against the backdrop of American history, its themes and narratives resonate strongly with people from Africa who have their own rich histories intertwined with those of the diaspora. This perspective challenges a strictly nationalistic view of media and literature, encouraging a more global understanding of shared human experiences.
The quote is attributed to Rege-Jean Page, an actor known for his role in the Netflix series "Bridgerton." Born in Zimbabwe but raised primarily in England, Page brings a unique international perspective to his work. His statement about "Roots" reflects his personal experience and insight into how cultural narratives can be perceived differently across various regions of the world.
