I’ll defend Rogan’s right to ask questions and interview controversial experts, because I don’t believe censorship is the answer to misinformation.
But I won’t argue anything in favor of choosing to use a horrible word, for any reason.
As I child I grew up listening to classical music. So naturally my favorite bands in high school in college were NWA and the Wu-Tang Clan. Contrast, you know.
Then I moved from central PA to downtown LA for college, and discovered the Roots, Blackstar, and eventually Tupac Shakur, who I eventually met randomly once at a party thrown by my neighbor, Easy E.
The early ‘90s were an interesting time for me personally. So I’ll admit that I’ve probably used the n-word privately while singing along to this new music that was SO DIFFERENT than classical. There was an energy in the use of language in hip hop and rap that entranced and delighted me. Just read these lyrics from the song Respiration to see what I mean. And yes, this poetic song uses the word in question. That’s Talib Kwali’s choice and I have nothing to say about it. But am I culpable if I sing along in my own head? I can’t tell.
What I do know is that I’d never sing these lyrics in public without skipping over that word.
So no, I’m not defending Rogan using this slur publically. But I have a little bit of empathy for how he might have picked up the habit.
Do I believe his apology about it was genuine? I have no idea. I don’t really think he’s thought that far ahead.
I don’t visit Rogan’s FB page or listen to his shows that often, but I do think he has more range than most people give him credit for. His episode with North Korean survivor Yeonmi Park is amazing. As is his interviews of Andres Huberman and Michael Pollan.
What I do see and hear, is that your writing energy is BACK a little bit and I super hope you’re feeling better as you continue to heal.
When you are back at capacity, your voice is going to be SO POWERFUL in service to justice & love. I can hardly wait!
And here’s to a world where slurs and insults based on privilege can fade into memory.
Blessings!
