Quotessence
Home / Quotes / Quote by Ernest Gaines

Quote by Ernest Gaines

Work

A Lesson Before Dying

This novel delves into the profound impact of racial prejudice and the resilience of the human spirit through the story of a young man facing execution. The narrative is set in the American South and centers on a teacher's mission to instill dignity in a man destined for death. more

Author

Ernest Gaines
Ernest Gaines

Ernest Gaines is an American author known for his profound insights into racial and social issues. His works often set in the black community of Louisiana, explore themes of racial relations, poverty, and education. more

You May Also Like

“Don't tell me to believe. Don't tell me to believe in the same God or laws that men believe in who commit these murders. Don't tell me to believe that God can bless this country and that men are judged by their peers. Who among his peers judged him? Was I there? Was the minister there? Was Harry Williams there? Was Farrell Jarreau? Was my aunt? Was Vivian? No, his peers did not judge him, and I will not believe.”

MenBelieveCountryLawDyingJudgingMurderCommitMinistersBlessJudgedPeersAunt
Book:A Lesson Before Dying: A Novel
Create image

“How do people come up with a date and a time to take life from another man? . . . Twelve white men say a black man must die, and another white man sets the date and time without consulting one black person. . . . They sentence you to death because you were at the wrong place at the wrong time, with no proof that you had anything at all to do with the crime . . . . Yet six months later they come and unlock your cage and tell you, We, us, white folks all, have decided it's time for you to die, because this is the convenient date and time.”

PeopleMenPersonsDiesBlackWhiteDyingCrimeMonthsSixDecidedFolksCome UpSentencesProofTwelveWhite ManCagesSix MonthsAnother ManConvenientConsultingWrong TimeBlack Person
Author:Ulysses S. Grant
Create image