Insomnia Hours: July Edition

Late Night Thoughts... to be read when you can't sleep....

Fellow people who can’t sleep, this one is for youuuuuuuu!

Welcome to the first edition of Insomnia Hours, where I share my late-night thoughts and reflections on whatever comes to mind in Black culture. As someone who often finds herself awake in the wee hours, I figured, why not turn these sleepless nights into something meaningful?

At the end of each month, I will reflect on major themes in Black creativity and nostalgia that swarm my mind between 1:00 AM and 4:00 AM. So grab a cup of tea—or even coffee, no judgment here—and join me on this journey through the night.

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1: Shanice's “I Love Your Smile video;”

There's something special about music videos from the '90s and early 2000s. Shanice's "I Love Your Smile" popped into my head this week. The bright colors and infectious joy Shanice has felt reminiscent of simpler times. Watching the video put into perspective how much we lost while transitioning into this new digital age. Written at 2:13 AM

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2: Lauryn Hill Never Goes Out of Style

Lauryn Hill's "Ex-Factor" has been playing in my head all this week. Something about that raw emotion and the soulful delivery touches my very core. More importantly, though, the music is timeless. It speaks to relevant themes today just as much as when this album was first dropped. That is a lesson in the power of vulnerability and authenticity in art. Written at 3:45 AM.

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3: We are living (Ooh) Single (Hey)

It was 3:00 AM on Tuesday, and I was watching some old episodes of "Living Single." These shows shaped my understanding of Black identity and community. They meant so much more than mere entertainment; the characters seemed like family, and their stories hit my core level. "Living Single" said it's okay to be quirky, successful, struggling, and in love—all simultaneously. And with that, its influence extends beyond today, as seen by its arrival in so many other shows, and remains relevant.

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4: Ann Lowe deserves her flowers

I was supposed to be asleep, but I watched a talk about the late Ann Lowe at about 4:02 AM one night. Ann Lowe, a pioneering Black fashion designer, made significant contributions to the fashion world despite facing numerous obstacles. Fashion has always been needed in our community: expression, resistance, showing creativity, and pride. Lowe’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance and talent, showcasing the incredible impact of Black designers on fashion history.

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Special Mention: It’s Carnival Time In Antigua!!

Fun fact: Antigua’s carnival is a 13-day festival annually in late July and early August, making it one of the longest carnivals.

One night, around 1:50 a.m., I dreamed of Antigua's Carnival. Vibrant colors, infectious music, and a joyful celebration of culture and heritage—Carnival in Antigua is a time of unification and expression when the whole island comes alive with energy and pride. It reminds one of the importance of celebration and the deeply bound cultural roots that keep us together. It is a real treat for the senses and soul if you can attend.

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Final Thoughts

These late-night thoughts are just a small view of the many other thoughts swirling around in my head when the world sleeps. I hope you enjoyed this first edition of the Insomnia Hours and that I may have stirred some nostalgia or new knowledge in you.

Feel free to share your thoughts.

May your nights be filled with inspiration and fewer sleepless hours.

Until next time, stay creative—keeping the art in everything, even at 3 AM.

Shadé