Killmonger Bury Me In The Ocean Quote
Marvel's Black Panther was not only a box office success but also a cultural phenomenon. One of the most memorable quotes from the movie is delivered by the antagonist, Erik Killmonger, portrayed by Michael B. Jordan. The line "Bury me in the ocean with my ancestors who jumped from ships because they knew death was better than bondage" struck a chord with many viewers and became a symbol of resistance and empowerment. In this article, we will explore the significance and impact of this powerful statement.
The Context of the Quote
The quote is spoken by Killmonger during his final moments in the movie. He has been mortally wounded by T'Challa, the Black Panther, and knows that he is going to die. Instead of begging for mercy or cursing his enemy, Killmonger chooses to deliver a powerful message that reflects his beliefs and values.
Killmonger is a complex character who has been shaped by his experiences as a black man in America. He was born in Oakland, California, and grew up in poverty and violence. His father, N'Jobu, was a Wakandan spy who was killed by his own brother, T'Chaka, the former king of Wakanda. Killmonger blames T'Chaka and his successors for abandoning the black people around the world and wants to use Wakanda's advanced technology to conquer and liberate them.
During the movie, Killmonger challenges T'Challa for the throne of Wakanda and defeats him in combat. He then decides to use Wakanda's resources to arm black revolutionary groups and start a global revolution. However, T'Challa and his allies oppose him and fight back. In the end, Killmonger is defeated but not before he leaves a lasting impression on the audience.
The Meaning of the Quote
At first glance, the quote may seem simple and straightforward. Killmonger is expressing his desire to be buried at sea alongside his ancestors who were enslaved and chose death over a life of bondage. However, the quote is much deeper than that and reflects a long and painful history of slavery, colonialism, and racism.
The image of slaves jumping off ships is a powerful and haunting one that evokes feelings of horror, sadness, and defiance. It reminds us of the millions of Africans who were forcibly taken from their homes, transported across the Atlantic, and sold as property to white slave masters. It also reminds us of the countless lives that were lost during the Middle Passage, the brutal journey from Africa to America that claimed the lives of up to 2 million people.
By invoking this image, Killmonger is not only honoring his ancestors but also challenging the audience to confront the legacy of slavery and its ongoing impact on black people. He is saying that the struggle for freedom, dignity, and justice is not over and that the fight must continue even if it means risking one's life.
The Impact of the Quote
The "Bury me in the ocean" quote has become a rallying cry for many people who identify with Killmonger's message. It has been used in protests, social media campaigns, and artistic expressions as a way to assert black pride, resistance, and self-determination.
For example, after the killing of George Floyd by Minneapolis police officers in May 2020, a mural was painted in his honor in Houston, Texas. The mural featured the words "Bury me in the ocean" alongside an image of Floyd and the Black Panther logo. The quote was seen as a way to connect Floyd's tragic death with the broader struggle for racial justice and to demand an end to police brutality and systemic racism.
The quote has also been embraced by the Black Lives Matter movement, which seeks to address the violence and inequality that black people face in America and around the world. The movement has used the quote as a way to highlight the resilience, creativity, and dignity of black people in the face of oppression.
The Legacy of the Quote
The "Bury me in the ocean" quote has become a cultural touchstone that transcends the movie that spawned it. It has entered the lexicon of popular culture and has been referenced in music, literature, and other forms of art.
For example, rapper Jay-Z used the quote in his song "Kill Jay-Z" from his 2017 album "4:44". He raps, "Bury me in the ocean with my ancestors who cut our chains off". The line is a reference to Killmonger's quote but also reflects Jay-Z's own journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
The quote has also inspired many people to reconnect with their African heritage and to honor their ancestors. It has become a symbol of pride and identity for people of African descent who have been marginalized and oppressed for centuries.
Conclusion
The "Bury me in the ocean" quote is a testament to the power of language and storytelling. It encapsulates the struggles, aspirations, and dreams of millions of people who have been denied their humanity and dignity. It challenges us to confront the legacy of slavery and to work towards a more just and equitable future. It is a reminder that even in the face of death and defeat, we can still find hope, courage, and meaning.