I am a writer. I suppose I think that the highest gift that man has is art, and I am audacious enough to think of myself as an artist - that there is both joy and beauty and illumination and communion between people to be achieved through the dissection of personality.

Lorraine Hansberry’s quote, "I am a writer. I suppose I think that the highest gift that man has is art, and I am audacious enough to think of myself as an artist - that there is both joy and beauty and illumination and communion between people to be achieved through the dissection of personality," highlights her deep conviction in the power of art and its ability to create connection and understanding. Hansberry asserts that art, particularly writing, is one of the highest gifts humanity possesses, as it allows for the exploration and expression of the complexities of the human experience. By referring to herself as an artist, she embraces the role of a creator who can illuminate, connect, and inspire others.

The mention of joy, beauty, and illumination speaks to the transformative and uplifting potential of art. Hansberry believes that through her writing, she can offer a form of illumination—a deeper understanding of human nature, relationships, and the world around us. The dissection of personality indicates her belief that art provides a means to examine and explore the intricacies of human character, which in turn fosters communion—a shared connection or understanding between people, enabling them to relate to one another on a deeper level.

Hansberry’s self-identification as an artist reflects her audacity to claim a space within the world of high art, despite the societal challenges and barriers that she, as a Black woman, may have faced. By recognizing art as a means to dissect and understand personality, she emphasizes the importance of storytelling and character exploration, particularly as a means of elevating the human condition and promoting empathy and shared experiences.

The origin of this quote lies in Hansberry’s work as a playwright, most notably her groundbreaking play A Raisin in the Sun. Her writing often explored themes of identity, race, and societal issues, using the lens of personal and familial experiences to probe deeper questions about human nature. In this context, her belief in art as a transformative and unifying force is reflected in her understanding of writing as a means to engage and connect people through shared human experiences.