Introduction
Richard Wright's "Native Son" is a groundbreaking novel that delves deep into the heart of racial injustice in 1930s America. Set in Chicago's impoverished South Side, the book follows the tragic story of Bigger Thomas, a young Black man whose life is shaped by fear, poverty, and systemic racism. Through Bigger's experiences, Wright paints a vivid picture of the devastating effects of racial discrimination on individuals and society as a whole.
The World of Bigger Thomas
The story begins by introducing us to Bigger Thomas, a 20-year-old living in extreme poverty with his mother and siblings in a cramped one-room apartment. From the outset, we see how racism has already limited Bigger's opportunities in life. He's unable to pursue education or find meaningful employment, leaving him feeling trapped and victimized by a society that seems designed to keep him down.
Wright masterfully sets the stage, showing us a world where fear is a constant companion for Black Americans. This fear isn't just a personal emotion but a pervasive force that shapes every aspect of Bigger's life. It's a fear born from the knowledge that society views him as less than human, a fear that influences his every decision and interaction.
A Fateful Night
Bigger's life takes a dramatic turn when he's hired as a chauffeur for the wealthy white Dalton family. On his very first night on the job, a series of events unfold that will change Bigger's life forever. He's tasked with driving Mary Dalton, the family's daughter, and finds himself in an uncomfortable situation when she becomes drunk.
Trying to help Mary to her room without waking her blind mother, Bigger becomes increasingly anxious. Mary's friendly and familiar behavior towards him goes against everything he's been taught about the boundaries between Black and white people. In a moment of panic, as he tries to keep Mary quiet, Bigger accidentally suffocates her.
This accidental killing sets off a chain of events that spiral out of control. Fearing he'll be accused of rape – a common and often baseless accusation against Black men at the time – Bigger makes the desperate decision to burn Mary's body in the furnace to hide the evidence.
Descent into Crime
What follows is a harrowing descent into further crime as Bigger tries to cover his tracks. He attempts to frame Mary's disappearance as a kidnapping, even going so far as to implicate her communist boyfriend, Jan. In a cruel twist, Bigger involves his girlfriend Bessie in his scheme, only to later attack and kill her when she wants to back out.
Wright doesn't shy away from showing the brutal nature of Bigger's actions. However, he presents these crimes in a way that forces the reader to confront the societal factors that have shaped Bigger into the person he's become. The constant fear, the lack of opportunities, and the dehumanizing effects of racism have all contributed to Bigger's violent behavior.
The Manhunt and Trial
As the police discover Mary's remains and Bessie's body, a city-wide manhunt ensues. Bigger is eventually captured and put on trial for Mary's murder. Interestingly, Bessie's murder is largely overlooked, highlighting the disparity in how the justice system values Black and white lives.
The trial scenes are particularly powerful, showcasing the deeply ingrained racism of the time. The prosecution portrays Bigger as a savage animal, playing into the worst stereotypes and fears of the white majority. In contrast, Bigger's defense attorney, Boris Max, tries to present a more nuanced view. He argues that Bigger's actions are a product of his environment – the result of a society that has systematically oppressed and marginalized Black people.
Despite Max's efforts, Bigger is sentenced to death. In his final days, Bigger begins to understand his place in society and the broader implications of his actions. This self-realization adds another layer of tragedy to the story, as we see Bigger gain insight into his life just as it's about to end.
Symbols and Themes
Throughout the novel, Wright uses powerful symbols to reinforce his themes. One striking example is the rat that Bigger kills at the beginning of the story. This rat represents Bigger himself – trapped, hunted, and ultimately destroyed by the society he lives in.
The themes of fear and flight are also prevalent throughout the book. Bigger lives in constant terror of the white world, always feeling like he's being chased or cornered. This perpetual state of fear and flight mirrors the experience of many Black Americans at the time, constantly on edge in a society that viewed them with suspicion and hostility.
The Power of Social Protest
"Native Son" stands as a powerful novel of social protest. Wright doesn't just tell a story; he indicts an entire system. He shows how racial discrimination and economic inequality work together to create a cycle of poverty and crime that's nearly impossible to escape.
By presenting Bigger as a "native son" of American society, Wright challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths. Bigger isn't born a criminal; he's shaped into one by a society that denies him basic human dignity and opportunity. The novel forces us to question the structures and systems that allow such injustice to persist.
The Destruction of Human Potential
One of the most heartbreaking aspects of "Native Son" is its portrayal of wasted human potential. Bigger, despite his flaws, is shown to be intelligent and capable. Yet, because of the color of his skin, he's never given the chance to develop his abilities or pursue his dreams.
This destruction of human potential isn't limited to Bigger alone. Wright shows how an entire community is held back by systemic racism, trapped in a cycle of poverty and despair. The novel asks us to imagine what might have been possible if these individuals had been given fair opportunities and treated with basic human dignity.
Final Thoughts
"Native Son" is a challenging and often uncomfortable read, but it's also an incredibly important one. Richard Wright's unflinching portrayal of racism's devastating impact forces readers to confront the harsh realities of racial discrimination and economic inequality.
The book's power lies in its ability to humanize Bigger Thomas, even as it shows him committing terrible acts. By understanding the forces that shaped Bigger, we're compelled to look beyond individual actions to the broader societal issues at play.
While set in the 1930s, many of the issues "Native Son" addresses remain relevant today. The book continues to serve as a stark reminder of the work still needed to create a truly just and equal society.
In the end, "Native Son" is more than just a story about one man's tragic life. It's a call to action, challenging readers to recognize the devastating effects of systemic racism and to work towards dismantling the structures that perpetuate such injustice. It's a powerful testament to the enduring impact of great literature and its ability to shine a light on society's darkest corners.