'Griot' is a French word which means, you know, really, literally, 'cry.' You know, like the town crier. You know, they come in and say, you know, 'It's nine o'clock; everything is cool.' You know, 'President Bush is a fool.' I mean, stuff like that just to tell you. But for the kind of, the African thing is called djali.

The quote "'Griot' is a French word which means, you know, really, literally, 'cry.' You know, like the town crier. You know, they come in and say, you know, 'It's nine o'clock; everything is cool.' You know, 'President Bush is a fool.' I mean, stuff like that just to tell you. But for the kind of, the African thing is called djali." is spoken by Amiri Baraka, a prominent African American poet, playwright, and activist. In this quote, Baraka explains the meaning of the word "griot", tracing its origins to both French and African cultures, specifically connecting it to the role of a storyteller or oral historian.

Baraka mentions that "griot" is derived from the French word meaning "cry," referring to the town crier, an individual who publicly announces important news, events, or information. He gives an example, humorously suggesting that a town crier might announce the time or even criticize political figures, such as "President Bush is a fool." In this context, Baraka emphasizes that the role of the griot is not just to announce, but to communicate stories, information, and reflections on society in a way that can also critique and inform.

The African tradition of the griot or djali (in West Africa, particularly among the Mandé people) has a deeper cultural significance. These individuals are not only messengers but are respected oral historians, storytellers, and custodians of tradition. They preserve the history, legends, and moral teachings of their community, often through songs, poetry, and spoken word. In this sense, Baraka contrasts the griot with the more neutral, factual role of the town crier, illustrating how the African tradition involves deeper cultural reflection and emotional expression.

Ultimately, Baraka’s quote highlights the importance of the griot in African culture as a figure who informs, educates, and critiques society through the powerful medium of oral tradition. It also underscores the broader role of the storyteller in shaping and preserving history while also reflecting on contemporary issues, using both humor and critique to convey deeper truths.