Analysis Of The Black Ball By Ralph Ellison

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“The Black Ball” by Ralph Ellison In the story “The Black Ball,” written by Ralph Ellison, there was a man named John. John was born around the time of the Civil War, he is also African-American, which produces many challenges because of the times and beliefs. The story seems straight forward but like every story/poem there is an underlying meaning. Through characterization and metaphors, you learn just how bad racism can be for certain people. In my opinion, the overall theme of the story would be perseverance. In the beginning you can tell he isn’t doing so well in school even though he received a pretty good education. He is still a single father with a son to rise. “I gave him his food and settled into a chair to study…” (pg 348) while