Sometimes I sound like gravel, and sometimes I sound like coffee and cream.
This may be a dream, but I'll say it anyway: I was supposed to be married last year, and I bought a gown. When I meet Nelson Mandela, I shall put on this gown and have the train of it removed and put aside, and kiss the ground that he walks on and then kiss his feet.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote expresses deep admiration and a dream of love intertwined with the desire to honor a great figure.
In this quote, Nina Simone reflects on her aspirations related to love and admiration, revealing a personal moment where she connects her dreams of marriage with a profound respect for Nelson Mandela. The imagery of wearing a wedding gown to meet Mandela emphasizes the significance she places on both love and the honor of being in the presence of someone she deeply respects, showcasing the intertwining of personal aspirations with her social and political ideals.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a wedding speech, one might reference this quote to highlight the blend of love and admiration.
More from Nina Simone
All quotes →Jazz is a white term to define black people. My music is black classical music.
I only knew classical music, which to me was the only true music. The only way I could survive at the bar was to mix the classical music with popular songs, and that meant I had to sing. What happened was that I discovered I had a voice plus the talent to mix classical music together with more popular songs, which at the time I detested.
Everything that happened to me as a child involved music. It was part of everyday life, as automatic as breathing.
I didn't get interested in music. It was a gift from God.
I have to be composed; I have to be poised. I have to remember what my first piano teacher told me: 'You do not touch that piano until you are ready and until they are ready to listen to you.
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