Richard Simmons: The Multifaceted Artist

Richard Simmons, also known by various stage names like Brother Man and Brother Hotep, presents a complex character in the "Heads of the Colored People" narrative.

Vocabulary: Stage names - Alternate identities or personas adopted by performers or artists.

Physical Appearance:

• Described as burly with a broad body and strong muscles
• Self-identifies as "an intellectual in a misleading package"

Personal Background:

• Claims to have had "too many experiences to name"
• Aspires to make money by selling his work, sometimes through illegal means
• Has a girlfriend

Creative Pursuits:

• Author of a self-published dystopian comic series called "Brother's Spawn"
• Writes poetry
• Demonstrates extensive knowledge of comics

Example: Richard's comic series "Brother's Spawn" showcases his creative abilities and interest in dystopian narratives.

Character Traits:

• Self-proclaimed non-violent nature
• Creative and imaginative
• Invasive and contradictory behavior, especially during his altercation with Riley
• Displays homophobic tendencies

Highlight: The contrast between Richard's intellectual self-image and his confrontational behavior adds depth to his character, illustrating the complexities of Black identity.

Beliefs and Values:

• Strongly believes that Black people should stick together
• Exhibits pride in his identity, sometimes to the point of appearing superficial

Richard's character contributes significantly to the Black network narrative of the story, representing a different facet of Black experience and ideology compared to Riley.

Paris Larkin: The Artistic Cosplayer

Paris Larkin is a vibrant character in the "Heads of the Colored People" narrative, embodying creativity, resilience, and a unique perspective on Black identity.

Appearance:

• 19-year-old Black woman
• Often seen in cosplay, with a striking ensemble:
  • Long silver wig
  • White-purple dress
  • Gray armor on arms and legs
  • Heavy black and white eyeshadow

Example: On the day described, Paris is cosplaying as Eucliwood Hellscythe, demonstrating her commitment to the art of cosplay.

Personal Life:

• In a relationship with Riley
• Works part-time for Hollywood Cemetery Tours (referred to as a "gravedigger")
• Talented sketch artist, focusing on "a collection of heads"

Character Traits:

• Possesses a "dark cheeriness"
• Nonjudgmental and respectful
• Desires visibility and recognition
• Finds excitement in facing and overcoming racial prejudices
• Lighthearted and frequently laughs
• Passionate about 1990s culture

Quote: "Paris feels alive when she gets anxious because of racists and while doing ghost tours."

Artistic Pursuits:

• Skilled in sketching people's faces and heads
• Collaborates with Kevan on artistic projects

Future Development: Years after Riley's death, Paris works with Kevan to create a project that tells the stories of Riley, Richard, and other victims of racial violence.

Highlight: Paris's character development, from a cosplaying artist to a collaborator in social justice art, showcases the transformative power of creativity in addressing racial issues.

Paris Larkin's character adds a unique dimension to the Black network narrative of the story. Her ability to find joy and self-expression through cosplay, while also confronting societal prejudices, illustrates the complex ways in which young Black individuals navigate their identities in contemporary society.