The Symbolism of Blue and Black

Black and blue serve as profound symbols reflecting complex histories that interweave cultural identity and emotional expression. Scholar Imani Perry argues that while ‘black’ represents a hard-earned identity born out of struggle, ‘blue’ evokes a spectrum of human experiences encapsulated in music and visual art. From the indigo cloths traded during the slave trade to blues music that captures both joy and sorrow, these colors tell a deeper story of resilience and creativity amid adversity. Through various historical references, including notable figures like Coretta Scott King and their sartorial choices, Perry illustrates how color transcends mere coincidence, embodying a rich narrative of identity and resistance within the African American experience.