Study Guide

Having Our Say Part I, Chapter 4: Bessie

By Sarah and A. Elizabeth Delany with Amy Hill Hearth

Part I, Chapter 4: Bessie

Sadie and Bessie share their home with another family, and those neighbors are shocked by how much noise these elderly sisters make late at night—they even wonder if there's a ghost in the house! Who you gonna call?
Bessie believes that they are still able to have a good time because "oppressed people have a good sense of humor" (1.4.5).
They even celebrate their father's birthday each year by cooking his favorite meal and making cake.
Bessie attributes their longevity to the fact that they avoid doctors and stay active. Sure beats a retirement home, huh?