Deacon King Kong

by James McBride

Nothing in this world happens unless white folks says it happens. The lies they tell each other sound better to them than the truth does when it comes out of our mouths.

“So who’s sending it now?” “Jesus,” she said. “Oh hush!” Sportcoat hissed. “You sound like Hettie. That cheese got to come from someplace!” Sister Paul shrugged. “Genesis twenty-seven twenty-eight says, ‘May God give you heaven’s dew and earth’s richness—an abundance of grain and new wine.’” “This is cheese.” “Son, a blessing favors them that needs it. Don’t matter how it comes. It just matters that it does.”