The concept of a Fractal “seed shape” stems from Ron Eglash in “African Fractals” which refers to a fundamental geometric form or pattern that serves as the basis for the generation of intricate fractal structures. Fractals are geometric shapes and patterns that repeat at different scales, displaying similarity, meaning that each part of the fractal looks similar to the whole when magnified. Fractals can be as simple as a straight line or as complex as a pattern. In the case of seed shape fractals, the pattern replicates branching structures and curves like nature and natural seed formations. These fractals are typically generated using iterative mathematical equations or algorithms. The process is repeatedly applying a transformation of shapes, which, as a result, creates complex, self-replicating patterns. The level of detail and complexity in seed shape fractals can vary depending on the specific algorithms. In literature, seed shapes are present and help create growth and technique. In my opinion, I believe that recursion is a fundamental concept that we discussed in class. In Ron Eglash’s words, “a sort of feedback loop, with the end result of one stage brought back as the starting point for the next.”(Eglash, African Fractals). Within a seed shape, recursion occurs because one shape is the start of the next, and so on.
Recursion in African American literature, particularly in the context of “seed shape,” can be interpreted through various lenses. In class, we experience recursion every time we start a conversation on the topic of our previous class and use those ideas to lead into the current class topic of the day. We experience this every class, but it is never acknowledged as recursion. Life as well constantly consists of recursion, and it never stops. As said before, recursion can be seen as a pattern of repetition or self-reference. Similarly, systems of racial oppression and injustice can exhibit recursive patterns, perpetuating themselves through cycles of discrimination, bias, and unequal power dynamics. Patterns of oppression often have deep historical roots that perpetuate over time. For example, systems of slavery and colonialism have had long-lasting effects on societies, creating recursive patterns of disadvantage for certain racial groups that persist across generations. Within the idea of racial injustice and oppression for recursion, there is a psychological part of it. Individuals who experience racism and oppression may internalize these experiences, leading to recursive patterns of self-doubt, low self-esteem, and limited opportunities. This psychological recursion can further establish injustice.
Patterns of oppression often have deep historical roots that perpetuate over time. For example, systems of slavery and colonialism have had long-lasting effects on societies, creating recursive patterns of disadvantage for certain racial groups that persist across generations. In our readings, we discussed these issues. In “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl” by Harriet A. Jacobs, recursion is constantly considered. Jacobs explores the recurring themes of oppression and the desire for freedom throughout the narrative. These recurring themes throughout the autobiography start the struggles that Harriet Jacob faced. These themes are echoed in various episodes of her life, such as her attempts to resist sexual advances, her struggles as a mother to protect her children, and her eventual flight to the North to secure her freedom. Repeatedly, Jacobs emphasizes how enslaved individuals resisted their oppression, whether through acts of defiance, escape attempts, or efforts to maintain their dignity and autonomy in the face of dehumanizing conditions. Jacobs often parallels her experiences and those of other enslaved individuals. For example, she compares her relationship with her master to that of other enslaved women, highlighting the recurring patterns of exploitation and abuse. The institution of slavery perpetuates itself through generations, with enslaved individuals often experiencing similar hardships and injustices as their predecessors. This pattern reinforces the systemic nature of slavery and the challenges faced by those looking to break free from its bonds. By implementing recursion, a narrative structure that reinforces the central themes and experiences depicted in “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl,” provides readers with a deeper understanding of the impact of slavery on individuals and communities.
Not only does racial injustice occur in “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl” but also in “Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass”. In class, we used recursion when discussing these autobiographies; it started with Fredrick Douglass and used his ideas and concepts to move into Harriet Jacobs. This representativeness was a matter of pain and harm because the experiences of enslaved people were not the same. This repetition and expansion reinforce the narrative’s central messages and provide a more comprehensive understanding of Douglass’s life and the institution of slavery. Douglass’s reflections on his growth and development could be seen as a form of personal recursion. As he recounts his journey from slavery to freedom, he frequently reflects on his past experiences and the lessons he has learned along the way. This process of self-reflection and self-examination can be likened to a recursive loop, as Douglass continually revisits and builds upon his thoughts and experiences.
Seed shapes serve as the foundation upon which fractals are built, representing the initial element from which recursive iterations unfold. Recursion in African American literature, particularly in the context of “seed shape,” can be interpreted through various lenses. As said before, recursion can be seen as a pattern of repetition or self-reference. Similarly, systems of racial oppression and injustice can exhibit recursive patterns, perpetuating themselves through cycles of discrimination, bias, and unequal power dynamics. There are many new things to consider for the rest of the semester. In class, we experience recursion every time we start a conversation on the topic of our previous class and use those ideas to lead into the current class topic of the day. We experience this every class, but it is never acknowledged as recursion. The idea of recursion will be fresh in my mind for the remainder of the semester. I will always try to connect everything together with what we have learned.