Xavier Gonjé

A Crow in Winter Xavier Gonjé

"A Crow in Winter" is an original story which illustrates the power of the human spirit and of redemption. No other story like it has ever been told before now. Although this story is an African American tale, it also includes other influences that helped shape African American culture. African American culture embodies aspects of Native American and European culture, which makes this story authentically American. African American history should not be simply forgotten or ignored, because it is a significant part of American history and should be shared by all. Voudoo was brought to the Caribbean from Africa and flourished in Haiti after its Revolution. The first African immigrants brought with them their cultural practices, languages, and religious beliefs rooted in spirit and ancestral worship. They also brought their knowledge of herbs, poisons, and their ritual creation of charms and amulets, needed for protection; a key element of Voudoo. Voudoo shamaan or honagans became central figures of Voudoo in the Carribean. Voudoo shamaan presided over ceremonial meetings and ritual dances. They also earned an income by administrating charms, amulets, and magical powders guaranteed to cure ailments, grant desires, and confound or disarm one's enemies. Voudoo spirits became associated with the Christian saints which presided over the earthly domain. Early followers of Voudoo in the Americas adopted the image of the Catholic Saints so they might continue to worship without interference from their slave masters. Although Voudoo and Catholic practices are in conflict, both saints and spirits act as mediators with shamans, and Papa Legba who presides over all religious ceremonies.