"Native Son" by Richard Wright

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that Wright's use of Communism in the story reflects the time the story was written, when Communism was a very real threat to the world, even greater than racism. The author points out that the selected quote from page 66 uses figurative and descriptive language to evoke feelings of fear, distrust, and evil, which were all associated with Communism in the 1940s. The paper concludes that the book, a compelling look at the races and their fears over time, indicates that men are really the same when it comes to fear and misunderstanding.

From the Paper:

"All of the elements of language syntax, placement, and thematic content are present in this passage. Wright worded it just perfectly to convey fear and misunderstanding. Communism was a puzzle to Bigger, just as it was to most people, who thought it was a violent and angry movement most akin to labor unions, who needed radical reform. Bigger's thoughts show he is just like the white people who fear him because of his color, and eventually point him down the path toward destruction. They do not understand him and his life any more than Bigger understands theirs, but everyone can find something in common, no matter how different they are, and this is Wright's purpose. He shows Bigger shares a common fear and distrust of Communism with many whites, thus showing there are commonalities in even the most distrustful and prejudicial relationship."

More papers on "Native Son" by Richard Wright:

• Analytical Essay # 62698 : "Richard Wright"
• Book Review # 89999 : "Influence of Aristotle on 'Native Son'"
• Analytical Essay # 9006 : "Native Son": The Paradoxical Symbol"

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