John Lewis Journey

Words: 758
Pages: 4

Makiah McLeod Professor Sanders AAS 267 April 8, 2024 Walking with the Wind by John Lewis: Book Review Walking with the Wind, by John Lewis provides poignant narratives and accounts of his life journey and involvement within the era of the Civil Rights Movement. Lewis’s memoir illustrates that achieving success demands sacrifice, and delves into the profound emotional and physical repercussions across generations while emphasizing the significance of various forms of resistance, perseverance, and steadfast moral conviction in fights for civil rights. This essay will delve deeper into the factors that shaped Lewis’s approach to activism, exploring his motivations and goals within the movement. Additionally, examining techniques and strategies …show more content…
When reflecting on his father’s character, readers gain insight into how his perception of his father shaped Lewis’s journey. He discusses the intergenerational trauma he inherited from his family, tracing back to his family’s experiences in sharecropping and farming. He also vividly recalls watching his father struggle with mounting debt, instilling fear that this cycle would continue through generations. Through these narratives, Lewis not only illustrates the multifaceted emotional landscape experienced by African American families, but also sheds light on the physically and emotionally long journey endured by many before becoming involved in civil rights organizations and movements. Lewis's introspection extends to the roots of his ethical beliefs, underscoring his inclination towards education and his inspiration drawn from the teachings of Martin Luther King Jr. The skill set of nonviolent resistance and perseverance, which Lewis acquired in his formative years, would play a pivotal role in shaping the rationale for embracing the nonviolent approach. In his own words, “But I’d always had a visceral aversion to violence of any