Morgan Jerkins shares how travel shaped her latest novel, “”Wandering in Strange Lands.”
In Morgan Jerkins’ new novel, “Wandering in Strange Lands” (Harper Collins, 2020), she takes readers along as she retraces her family’s migration from the South to their eventual home in New Jersey. The book opens with Jerkins reflecting on her father’s statement that she was the “milk man’s baby” due to her light complexion. This sense of unbelonging lingers with Jerkins, serving as a catalyst in her journey to discover her roots. The narrative is divided into four parts: Lowcountry, Georgia, South Carolina; Louisiana Creole; Oklahoma; and Los Angeles, as Jerkins researches and travels to each region.
Jerkins’ journey transcends geography; she delves into the culinary and spiritual heritage of African Americans and their connection to the land. Her second novel mirrors her debut, “This May Be My Undoing” (Harper Collins, 2018), revealing her willingness to be vulnerable. Through her exceptional storytelling, she intertwines personal revelations with the pain and triumphs of Black American life. In an insightful conversation, we discussed identity, the influence of the South on Black culture, and the significance of Black migration stories in America.
Exploring Research and Regional Time Frames
Travel and Leisure: What was the time frame for your research, and how much time did you spend in each region?
Morgan Jerkins: “The time I spent in each location varied. While in the Lowcountry, specifically Georgia and South Carolina, I spent about two weeks—one week in each area. Louisiana took four to five days, Oklahoma a week, and California also a week. However, before my travels, I invested many hours researching the communities. This process involved preliminary studies, discussions with scholars, and interactions with locals. After visiting, I engaged in post-research to contextualize my observations.”
Understanding Southern Roots
You mentioned that for Black people, there are only two regions in America: up South and down South. Can you explain?
“For many African Americans, our origins trace back to the South due to slavery. The South is the heart of African American culture; it’s home. We cannot discuss Black culture without acknowledging Mississippi, the most Black state in the nation, nor the Gullah Geechee traditions and their influence on our burial practices and cuisine.”
Desire to Dig Deeper
If you could return to one of the places you visited to explore further, where would it be?
“I would revisit St. Helena [in South Carolina], as it was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever encountered. The Lowcountry’s landscapes—the fields, the atmosphere—are indescribably profound. I miss the seafood, the spiritual essence of the Black community there, and surprisingly, even the heat; it feels like a unique existence.”
Lessons from the Journey
What do you hope readers will grasp from your exploration of Black migration?
“I want to convey the relentless pursuit of freedom among Black individuals, highlighting the devastation faced by our communities, even in flight. Readers should reflect on the cultural, economic, and national repercussions. Our country has yet to fully address the historical and ongoing injustices against Black people. It’s vital to recognize the intergenerational losses we have endured, while also understanding the possibility of recovery through our oral histories, which remain invaluable in spite of historical erasure.”
Finding Missing Pieces
You noted that you understood the weight of carrying blank spaces and missing fragments. What pieces did you uncover?
“A significant piece was uncovering my father’s family history. I also understood the folklore that has passed through generations in my family. For example, I learned why we have specific superstitious traditions on New Year’s Day regarding food. Furthermore, delving into California’s roots, I discovered the origins of gang culture and the riots—critical elements not easily learned from Hollywood films. This journey enriched my identity and corrected misconceptions about Black experiences across the nation. Traveling was essential for this transformation.”
Healing Through Exploration
Describing your parents, you noted your dad was a first-generation migrant, while your mom was a second-generation migrant from the South. Did this journey enhance your understanding of your parents?
“Absolutely. Writing this book mended much of my relationship with my father. Growing up, I struggled with insecurities concerning my place within his family, as I lived with my mother in a blended family. By tracing my father’s lineage and exploring our history, I gained valuable insights, like naming ancestors and locations. I discovered stories my father had never known. It was a profoundly healing experience.”
Explore more of Morgan Jerkins’ journey as a bestselling author on popular platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher.
