Black Boy

In his early childhood and youth, how did Richard react to submission of other black Americans to white authority?

Black Boy/Author
Richard Wright
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In chapter 3, the theme of isolation comes into play. Richard as a Black Boy is isolated from the world of the "white people," but this isolation is felt within his own race as well. Within he black community, he is never able to find a confidant and does not allow himself to reveal his feelings to anyone. When he enters into the gang, he seems to find comrades among his fellow gang members, but their relationship is superficial - based on their similar racial prejudices rather than friendship. The racial tension between blacks and whites is the only common factor that Richard seems to share with those he befriends, which come into play later on in his autobiographical account. In a way, these tensions consume Richard and his attitude; his seemingly violent nature belies the anger and hatred that he stores emotionally. Similarly, when Richard must make friends at the new school in Greenwood, he must fight to gain trust and respect.

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