The race of a writer can matter when the narrative deals with issues of race, as the writer’s personal experiences and perspective can shape the way they portray these issues in their writing. In the case of Kate Chopin, her background as a white woman from a family of slave owners and her marriage to someone in the cotton industry may have influenced the way she addressed racism in her short story. While it is important for all voices to be heard and for diverse perspectives to be represented, it is also crucial for writers to be aware of their own biases and to consider the potential impact of their race on the way they portray issues of race in their writing. In some cases, writers may choose to step back and allow voices from marginalized communities to take the lead in telling their own stories. Ultimately, the race of the writer should not be the sole determining factor in whether their work is valuable or valid. What is most important is the quality and authenticity of the writing, and whether it accurately and thoughtfully addresses the issues at hand.