The quote “Literature adds to reality; it does not simply describe it” (C.S. Lewis) is embodied in the short story “the lesson” by Toni Cade Bambara. In the story a child named Sylvia visits a toy store with a few neighborhood children and Miss Moore, an educated black woman who Sylvia finds unpleasant. This story describes the economic injustice that was the reality for many Americans at this time, but goes over and beyond by putting the reader in the mind of a child trying to wrap their head around the fact that their family’s yearly income is a child’s toy sailboat for the rich. We are not only told that Sylvia feels like an unjust has been done against her, the author also uses vivid imagery so that we also feel this unjust too. “Then Sugar run a finger over the whole boat. And I’m jealous and want to hit her. Maybe not her, but I sure want to punch somebody in the mouth.” (Toni Cade Bambara). This quote brings to life the anger that Sylvia feels, and we feel the anger too. Mourning for these impoverished children, and the bit of innocence that left them when they exited the toy store empty handed.
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2 thoughts on “Patricia Jackson Discussion 3”
Hi Patricia, you’ve perfectly captured how Toni Cade Bambara’s story “The Lesson” brings to life the harsh reality of economic inequality through vivid imagery and the perspective of a child. It’s a powerful example of how literature can make us feel the injustices experienced by the characters, just like Sylvia’s anger, which becomes visible to the reader. Personally I liked how you added this line “but goes over and beyond by putting the reader in the mind of a child trying to wrap their head around the fact that their family’s yearly income is a child’s toy sailboat for the rich”. As Sylvia mentions that the toy store was only for the rich.
Hi Patricia!
I agree with your analysis. This story is not just a story, for many it is a reality. It can make someone recall a memory of a similar experience. The author does a good job of making sure that the feelings described in the story correlate with what a child would actually feel. From being excited to hesitant, to confused, to angry, and then disappointed. It results in, like you said, loss of innocence.