Black Boy, written by Richard Wright, is a biography of Richard’s life. In this novel we see racism, violence, religion, hardworking individuals and poverty. Richard’s life was no rainbows and unicorns. He had a very tough life and it taught me to appreciate all that I have. Richard’ mom was tough on him and taught obedience by being physical. For example, in the beginning of the book Richard sets fire to his grandmother's house and, as punishment, is nearly beaten to death by his mother. “But for a long time I was chastened whenever I remembered that my mother had come close to killing me.” In this part of the book it really shows how scared Richard is of his mother and what she is capable of doing. If anyone should understand Richard’sviolent …show more content…
If those boys bother you, then fight,” she said. As for Richard’s father, he left when Wright was young, requiring his mother to struggle to earn enough money to keep food on the table and a roof over their heads. Richard realizes he has to help his mom and goes off to find a job at six years of age. This shows how he cares for his mom and he is willing to do whatever it takes. Racism is a big part of this novel. Whites in the novel generally treat Richard poorly because of the color of his skin. Even though the Hoffmans and Mr.Crane treat him with respect he still doesn’t normally interact with them. Racism is all over this book and sometimes what people sayand do to Richard is pretty harsh. For example, “You mean to stand there, nigger, and tell me thatyou live in Jackson and don’t know how to milk a cow?” This was unnecessary of her to say and specially in that way. Also, when whites see Richard behaving unacceptably in their presence, they berate, slap or manipulate him. In Black Boy, religion’s not that important. Richard could care less about all the God and Jesusstuff. “We did not object, for church was not where we learned of God or His ways, but where we met our school friends and continued our long, rambling