Michaela Coel is a hugely talented young black British creative. Her show I May Destroy You is one of the most distinctive pieces of work to come from the UK in recent memory.
Coel's MacTaggart Lecture made waves with her revelations about race, class and gender and how they apply to her as a creative. Based on this speech, Misfits describes Coel’s own journey to realised creative and encourages us to embrace our differences. It’s been described as ‘a rousing coming-to-power manifesto dedicated to anyone who has ever worried about fitting in’.
While Coel’s experiences are in writing, she’s a multi-hyphenate creative, acting in her own creations which demonstrate her auteur’s vision across the colour palette, fashion, music and language. To succeed as a modern creative is to embrace different mediums and references and Coel can be instructive in this respect.
Coel has a singular vision, partially derived from a background uncommon in her industry, and Misfits also references ideas of beauty, the use of symbols, ethnicity, gender and discusses the creative process.
Being a Misfit
Coel references being regarded as uncommercial and unattractive throughout. Consider the tension between making your work commercial and accessible.
Symbols and Motifs
Consider Coel’s use of the moth throughout and the importance of symbols more generally.
Making it in a Difficult Industry
Coel has struggled with issues like racism and sexism in what is a tough environment for a creative but has succeeded in making her art. Consider your own obstacles while you read.
Ownership and Compromise
Coel has been continually asked to compromise her vision for various reasons, including ownership. What do you own as a creative and what would you be prepared to give up to see your art made?
The actual speech that the book is based on. You can watch the lecture:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odusP8gmqsg
Or there’s a transcript if you’d prefer to read!
Trailer for Coel’s second TV show, I May Destroy You
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTjlurdbNnw