"The Prince of Tides" is a gripping narrative about a troubled man who must confront his traumatic past in order to help his twin sister, a poet who has attempted suicide. The protagonist, in the process of aiding his sister's psychiatrist, is forced to delve into their shared history of growing up in a dysfunctional family in South Carolina. The story is a deep exploration of family dynamics, mental health, and the enduring impact of childhood trauma, all set against the backdrop of the Southern United States.

This novel explores the lives and struggles of three African American sisters from the South as they pursue their individual paths towards self-discovery and empowerment. Each sister embodies distinct artistic and cultural identities, with one becoming a weaver, another a dancer, and the third a musician and writer. Their stories, rich with elements of folklore and spirituality, weave together themes of family, heritage, and the quest for personal and artistic freedom. Through their journeys, the sisters confront issues of race, gender, and sexuality, navigating the complexities of love, responsibility, and the bonds that tie them to each other and their shared past.

The novel is a coming-of-age story that explores the tumultuous journey of a Southern girl as she grapples with her identity amidst the backdrop of the civil rights movement and the cultural upheavals of the 1960s. Through a series of vignettes that blend humor and pathos, the protagonist navigates the complexities of her family dynamics, her burgeoning sexuality, and her quest for self-discovery. The narrative delves into themes of feminism, rebellion, and the transformative power of personal revolution, ultimately painting a portrait of a young woman's struggle to break free from societal constraints and forge her own path.

This novel follows the life of Marietta Cook, a tall, resilient African American woman from the Gullah community in South Carolina, as she endures the hardships and complexities of the American South. Through her journey, we witness her strength and determination as she raises her twin sons, contends with racial and social challenges, and strives to maintain her cultural heritage. The narrative, rich with Gullah dialect and traditions, paints a vivid portrait of a woman's struggle for survival and dignity against a backdrop of historical events that shape her community and the nation.