Suzan-Lori Parks' narrative voice was deeply shaped by her personal hardships, including experiences with racism and the complexities of her identity. Growing up in a predominantly white community, she faced challenges that fueled her exploration of race and gender in her plays. Parks often delves into the African American experience, employing innovative storytelling techniques to convey her themes. Her personal struggles motivated her to create works that challenge societal norms and provoke thought, marking her as a significant figure in contemporary American theater.