"An I am Sheba me am (She be do be wah waaaah doo wah") O(au)rality, Textuality and Performativity: African American Literature's Vernacular Theory and the Work of Suzan-Lori Parks

Argues for a strong connection between African American literary theory's concern for the vernacular and the works of African American playwright Suzan-Lori Parks. Contends that her language "lives best on its feet," and addresses the struggle between o(au)rality and textuality in contemporary African American theater by measuring African American literary theory on vernacular against Parks's plays both as they are written and performed. Focuses on the qualities of performativity that connect all sides of this discussion. Stresses the marriage between African American vernacular speech, culture, and literary traditions and Parks's work. Includes footnotes.