On the Shelf: Matriarch By Tina Knowles
Tina Knowles, best known as Beyoncé and Solange’s mother, has released a new memoir titled “Matriarch.” The 400-plus page book delves into her life story, from her humble beginnings in Galveston, Texas, to her role as a mother figure to not only her own children but also Beyoncé’s bandmate Kelly Rowland and niece Angie Beyincé.
The memoir covers Knowles’ journey from a poor upbringing to opening a hair salon for professional Black women in Houston. It also delves into her experiences as the stylist for Destiny’s Child and her battle with breast cancer, which she is currently in remission from. Through it all, Knowles emphasizes the resilience and strength of the women in her family who have overcome adversity and kept their families together.
In a recent interview, Knowles shared that she had been working on the memoir for over two years, drawing from recordings and notes she had taken. She wanted to leave a legacy for her children and grandchildren, ensuring that they knew their family history. Despite the challenges of condensing her story into 400 pages, Knowles was determined to share her perspective and voice throughout the book.
One of the key themes in “Matriarch” is the importance of naming in Knowles’ family history. From the misspelling of her maiden name to the selection of her daughters’ names, naming holds a special significance. Knowles reflects on the research she did to uncover her ancestors’ original surname, Boyancé, and how naming has connected her to her family’s past.
Throughout the memoir, Knowles opens up about traumatic experiences, such as a medical assault she faced as a teenager and her recent battle with breast cancer. Writing about these events was a healing process for her, allowing her to address past trauma and shed light on important issues like the need for sensitivity in medical care, especially for marginalized communities.
Looking ahead, Knowles hopes that her daughters, Beyoncé and Solange, will also write their memoirs someday. She believes that sharing their stories can inspire others and provide a sense of healing. Knowles encourages everyone to document their life stories, whether for publication or personal reflection, as a way of leaving a lasting legacy for future generations.
