In a vibrant evening at The Blond, located within 11 Howard, celebrities gathered for “One Nightstand,” an event where renowned readers and writers shared some of their favorite literary works, offering a glimpse into their personal tastes and lives. Among them was Lena Waithe, a multifaceted creator embarking on numerous projects, including the closing of the eighth season of her series “The Chi,” which has made history as the longest-running Black drama on cable. In addition to her podcast, Legacy Talk, featuring guests like Phylicia Rashad, Waithe is also preparing for the February premiere of her play “Trinity” in Baltimore, while working on various productions slated for release soon.
During the event, Waithe revealed a special project she’s collaborating on with fellow creator Issa Rae—a film centering on their friendship and a humorous exploration of a friendship breakup. While initially intended to work on beats for Rae, Waithe found herself engrossed in writing the script, claiming, “I may just send that to her at some point.” The project, featuring characters named Lena and Issa, promises to reflect their real-life camaraderie.
Apart from her creative endeavors, Waithe drew inspiration from the books she cherishes, sharing her top literary picks during the event. Her first recommendation, “This Is Your Mother” by Erika J. Simpson, explores the profound impact of familial relationships on personal identity. “I think what’s great about books or art of any kind is that you see yourself in people that you might not ever meet,” she reflected on the memoir’s universal themes.
Continuing the theme of loss and resilience, Waithe recommended “Think You’ll Be Happy” by Nicole Avant. The memoir delves into the grief of losing a mother, resonating with Waithe’s own experiences of losing her father as a teenager. Avant’s candid narrative prompted Waithe to reflect on the complexities of such losses, highlighting the grace with which Avant processes her trauma.
Another notable selection, “Sky Full of Elephants” by Cebo Campbell, presents a thought-provoking narrative that envisions a world where white individuals vanish, prompting a reevaluation of societal dynamics. Waithe emphasized Campbell’s exploration of anger and self-identity, appreciating the book’s imaginative yet grounded portrayal of reality.
Lastly, she highlighted “Yes I Can: The Story of Sammy Davis, Jr.,” a memoir that recounts the legendary entertainer’s extraordinary life and contributions to culture and society. Waithe expressed admiration for Davis’s courage in challenging societal norms and his profound exploration of love’s complexities, sharing her connection through a biopic she wrote on him, which she is now adapting into a stage play.
As the evening unfolded, Lena Waithe not only celebrated literature but also reflected on the shared human experiences that connect us all, illustrating the power of storytelling to inspire and foster understanding among diverse audiences.