Ikpi, Bassay. I’m Telling the Truth, but I’m Lying

Abstract

This book includes a collection of autobiographical essays by a Nigerian-American writer, spoken-word poet, and mental health advocate Bassay Ikpi. In the text, the author narrates the difficult experience of a black woman dealing with a psychological illness. The book describes how the author’s life drastically changes after moving to Oklahoma from her homeland Nigeria. Ikpi had a troubled relationship with her mother, predominantly due to the stern behavior and workaholic nature of her mother. The text also gives an account of how her mother’s obsession with her having a successful career creates a mounting distance between two of them. As a result of that, Ikpi leaves her home at an early age. Hence, the writer describes how a problematic relationship with her family and living alone from a young age further deteriorates her mental health.