Womenfolk raised me, and I was full-grown before I knew I came from a broken home.

In this quote, Gil Scott-Heron reflects on the influence of the women in his life and the way they shaped his upbringing. He uses the term "womenfolk" to acknowledge the strong maternal figures, likely his mother and other female role models, who raised him. Scott-Heron implies that the presence of these women provided him with the support and nurturing he needed, making him feel secure and loved, even in a situation that might have been challenging or unconventional.

The second part of the quote, "I was full-grown before I knew I came from a broken home," reveals that Scott-Heron was unaware of the dysfunction or separation in his family until later in life. The phrase "broken home" typically refers to a family where parents are separated or divorced, but Scott-Heron suggests that, due to the strength and resilience of the women around him, he was shielded from the emotional weight of that situation. This speaks to the idea that a loving and supportive environment can sometimes mask the difficulties or shortcomings of a family structure.

The origin of this reflection likely stems from Scott-Heron’s own upbringing. Known for his powerful music and poetry that often explored themes of race, identity, and social justice, he drew from his personal experiences to create art that resonated with others. His acknowledgment of being raised by women and later discovering the reality of his family situation reflects his broader understanding of societal challenges and personal resilience.

Ultimately, this quote speaks to the resilience and love provided by the women who raised Scott-Heron, as well as the notion that a supportive family environment can transcend traditional ideas of what a "complete" or "intact" family should be. It underscores the idea that family support—particularly from strong women—can shape a person’s sense of self and identity, even when faced with difficult circumstances.