Victoria Santagato Discussion 4

The two characters from “The Lesson” whose responses to the FAO Schwarz visit I find the most interesting to compare are Sylvia and Sugar. They both become aware of racial inequality, but Sylvia is more affected and angry by this realization.

Before Miss Moore asks the group what they think of FAO Schwarz, Sylvia is thinking about the $35 toy clown on the train going back uptown. During this inner dialogue, she is questioning why certain people are able to afford these expensive toys while other people are not able to. She asks what kind of work they do, pointing out that other people are given different opportunities than people in her community.

When the group returns and Miss Moore asks the children what they think of FAO Schwarz, Sugar replies with insightful opinions, which upsets Sylvia. Sugar is stating ideas that emphasis the thoughts Sylvia was having on the train about equality and how everyone should be able to attain the same opportunities. Sylvia feels betrayed by Sugar answering Miss Moore and siding with her in a sense. I believe Sylvia is not only mad about Sugar speaking up, but she must also be so upset comprehending this unfair truth that exists in this country. On the other hand, Sugar does not seem too negatively affected by it. When they leave, Sugar is ready for the next fun activity while Sylvia must be alone to contemplate the day.

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