This speaks to a mindset born in the late 60s and 70s. A good portion of a generation back then jumped on this bandwagon and changed their names. It was a trend, sign of the times. Some took it more seriously than others.

Everyone had a Swahili version of who they were based on their personality and chose names to align with their core person.

Ultimately, it was a generation trying to align itself with their roots, a culture that was erased and taken away during slavery. It sounds like Alice Walker was addressing the times, and wanting folks to see the downside of a newly adopted way of thinking.

Great review, Devette as usual. 🤗