Today, we discussed or rather tried to discuss "A party down at the square". If you think about the story's name, you may get an idea that the focus of the article is a party, where people are having fun. Yes, your guess is right! However, these people's entertainment style is different from the ones who chooses dancing, singing or having conversations to have great time. Unfortunately, these people come together to burn someone, who is black. Only because of his colour, they are lynching him. Only because of his fate that makes him black, they are burning him alive. In my opinion, this event is shame of humanity. Nevertheless, can we consider these people as humanity, who consider themselves superior to another, only because of their colour? I think this is not fair, somebody should stop this oppression on black people and let them live as they desire. We are all humans that desire to live peacefully.
In this article, Ellison is really successful in awaking these ideas in readers. He is also a black people and point out this terrible situation explicitly. Beside from the importance of the message of this article, the techniques that Ellison is using is also crucial. He uses symbolism such as the "Bronz Statue" or "Phenix City"? Do you wonder the meaning of these? I realy wonder, but i haven't got enough idea about them, yet. However, i will try to find in my first free time when i get rid of all my exams. :)
yes, what a shame we couldn't discuss it properly, since it's a brilliantly written story...
ReplyDeleteI was curious as to why you think "Phenix City" is a symbol...?
As for the statue, here is my interpretation: this is most likely a statue of a Southern general who was defeated in the Civil War. But the general is watching the proceedings, lending his approval in effect, which further underlines how this injustice is sanctioned by higher authority. Remember as well that the lynching is taking place in front of the courthouse and that the sheriff is part of the crowd.
Thanks for coming prepared to the class, I wish there were more like you... :(
Please feel free to ask any further questions here, as I really love this story and owe you a discussion anyway...
It is sometimes a bit different to interprete such articles, i need much attention to understand the hidden meanings. sometimes i realize the importance of a subject but cannot be sure about its meaning. i have to fulfill myself on this :) while i was searching about the meaning of "the bronz statue", i encountered the "Phenix City", as well. i will try more on this article :)
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