C.S. Lewis’s quote about literature is embodied in The Lesson by Toni Cade Bambara by giving us a glimpse of how Sylvia see’s and feels about her world in tje 1960’s living in poverty as a black child. Bambara introduces us to Ms Moore who is a black educated women, which was looked upon in the “ghetto” at those times. Looked upon for speaking proper english, or just simply dressing in a professional way. In the story Ms Moore takes Sylvia and her cousins to a fancy toy story, which Sylvia doesn’t seem interested by. Until they get to the store and see the toys from the window and there “ridiculous” prices. Sylvia starts to feel ashamed and gets frustrated. “And I’m jealous and want to hit her. Maybe not her, but punch somebody in the mouth”. (Bambara, 1972) Ms Moore’s lesson over all was to show these kids how others live, and if they could do it they could to. The story gave us a feeling of some of our day to day life struggles that some of us faced in the 60s and even now in 2023. “That this is not much of a democracy if you ask me. Equal chance to pursue happiness means and equal crack at the dough, don’t it?” (Bambara, 1972)
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2 thoughts on “Discussion 3”
Fainelis, this is a good discussion of the story, but how does the C.S. Lewis quote relate to the story?
I agree with your analysis of Toni Cade Bambara’s “The Lesson.” In fact, the narrative offers a sobering commentary on the enormous inequalities in society that persist to this day. What strikes me is how Sylvia’s responses and feelings resemble those of many people who are first faced with the stark realities of economic inequities. The first shock, rage, and realization are all masterfully depicted in the story. Additionally, the focus on Ms. Moore as an educated woman highlights the importance of knowledge and education. Bambara informs us through Ms. Moore that acknowledging these disparities is the first step towards closing them.