Tambourines to Glory

Tambourines to Glory Summary | Chapter 1 Summary

This short novel tells the story of two very different black women in 1950's Harlem, of the populist church they start, and how their dissimilar views on the role of the church lead to confrontation and, eventually, to murder. Recounted in a series of short, individually titled chapters, the narrative explores themes related to the nature of spirituality, racism, and friendship.

Chapter 1 - Palm Sunday - Essie and Laura compare memories of the Palm Sundays, Easters, and church-going habits of their childhoods. Conversation reveals that Laura is large breasted, sexual, sensual, and fond of her liquor, and that Essie is overweight, has a beautiful singing voice, and has a sixteen-year-old daughter whom she has rarely seen but longs to live with. Laura struggles to convince Essie to do something positive with her life, saying "The Lord helps those who help themselves" and suggesting that the two of them start a church like the church a few blocks away which was started by a reformed pimp and is now making a lot of money. Laura suggests Essie can provide the music while she provides inspirational speaking, offering a demonstration of what she might say. This inspires Essie to sing a gospel song, and they persuade themselves and each other that Laura's idea could work. Essie goes on her knees and prays. Laura says amen "with her hand on her empty wine glass."