Themes and style Examine the Themes Analyze the styles - SS2 Literature Lesson Note

Themes and Style in Native Son

Themes

Racism: Racism is the central theme of Native Son. Richard Wright uses the novel to explore the devastating effects of racism on Black people in the American South.
Poverty: Poverty is another major theme in the novel. Bigger Thomas is unable to find a good job because of his race and lack of education. He lives in a cramped apartment with his family. They often go hungry.
Oppression: Bigger is constantly reminded of his inferiority by the white people he encounters. He is also trapped in a system that is stacked against him.
Violence: Violence is a direct result of poverty and oppression. Bigger feels angry and resentful because of the way he is treated. He also feels hopeless and trapped. This leads him to commit violence.
Style

Wright's writing style in Native Son is stark and realistic. He uses vivid language to portray the harsh realities of life in the Jim Crow South. He also uses stream-of-consciousness to explore Bigger's inner thoughts and feelings.

Relevant Portions

Racism:
"He knew that whites always looked at him with suspicion and fear, and he answered their glances with defiance or hatred. He could never relax in the presence of whites. He was always on guard, always waiting for the expected insult or blow." (Chapter 1)

Poverty:
"The Thomas family lived in a one-room apartment in a dilapidated building. The room was small and crowded, and the furniture was old and battered. There was a bed, a table, and two chairs. The only other piece of furniture was a stove." (Chapter 2)

Oppression:
"Bigger felt like a rat trapped in a corner. He knew that he could not escape the police. He knew that he would be caught and tried and convicted. And he knew that he would be put to death." (Chapter 12)

Violence:
"Bigger Thomas stood over Mary Dalton's body, his heart pounding in his chest. He could not believe what he had done. He had killed a white woman. He knew that he would be hunted down and killed for what he had done." (Chapter 3)

Relating the Themes to Actual Life Experiences or Encounters

The themes of racism, poverty, oppression, and violence are still relevant today. Many people continue to experience these things in their own lives.

For example, I have experienced racism firsthand when I was denied a job because of my race. I have also seen the effects of poverty on my friends and family members. I have felt oppressed by the system that is stacked against me. And I have seen the violence that can result from racism, poverty, and oppression.

Wright's novel is a powerful reminder that these problems are still very real in our world. It is a novel that we should all read and reflect on.