The theme of equality for African American women in their communities is a similar theme for Paule Marshall and Alice Walker. They both connect to women of the past and the identities they connect with. Both women's identification is linked to exposure to African American culture throughout their lives. Walker says, “This is why we must step outside of ourselves and look and identify with our lives the living creativity that some of our great-grandmothers were not allowed to know. I emphasize some of them because it is well known that the majority of our great-grandmothers knew, without even "knowing", the reality of their spirituality, even if they did not recognize it beyond what was happening in church singing (Walker, 1996: 2318-2319).Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essay Alice Walker believes it is important to identify with the subconscious and spirituality of African American women. Alice Walker expresses creative spirituality and culture through her writings which have become a bridge connecting the divide between African American women of the past and their search for self-expression. Even though she had the opportunity and freedom to write, she could relate to the racism her ancestors faced. She relates to the trials and tribulations that African American women were subjected to and this is how she identifies with the ancestors of African American women. She defines the creative spirit as an expression of African American women through everyday things such as songs and making quilts, "Everyday Use" as these were an expression of art for African American ancestors and could not be taken away from them. Identification of Paule Marshall's African-American ancestor comes from her mother and her mother's friends. Her essays identify with her mother's African-American tradition that she expressed. She describes the kitchen setting in "Poets in The Kitchen" which she was exposed to as a child and strong self-expression is an art form to keep African tradition alive and was an integral part of their lives . (Marshall, 1996: 1948). The independence Marshall felt came through "speech", which was the ultimate expression of art and a sense of power, because in her mother's time, women were powerless and expressed themselves in their kitchens. These conversations taught Marshall his first lesson in narrative art. She says: “They pricked my ears. They set a standard of excellence. This is why my best work must be attributed to them; it stands as a testament to the rich heritage of language and culture that they so freely passed on to me in the word “boutique kitchen” (Marshall, 1996: 1952). Alice Walker's essay, "In Search of Our Mother's Gardens" and Paule Marshall, "Poets in The Kitchen" focuses on African American women of the past and the impact of these women on their writing. These women inspired both to become African American writers who use different means of expression, Alice Walker expresses her independence through her creative spirit and Paule Marshall through speech to celebrate the lives of these women. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, both African American writers express the importance of identity, independence, and inspiration. They connected with their ancestors, found a common identity and..