Black Boy

3. A man from the north offers Richard a dollar, why does Richard not want to take it ?

Chapter 9-11

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Richard finds the offer insulting, but he doersn't know how to react. He is more shocked than grateful because he realizes that the man sees beyond the superficial facade he usually dons in his interaction with other whites. To Richard, the offer is degrading. Thus, we see that Richard is truly isolated - emotionally and intellectually - from those around him, and isolation is what comforts him. The fact that another person can see his true feelings is a sign of weakness to Richard.

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http://www.gradesaver.com/black-boy/study-guide/section3/