Read this excerpt from Black Boy by Richard Wright.
"No," she said. "Go now! If you come back into this house
without those groceries, I'll whip you!"
She slammed the door and I heard the key turn the lock. I shook
with fright. I was alone upon the dark, hostile streets and gangs
were after me. I had the choice of being beaten at home or away
from home. I clutched the stick, crying, trying to reason. If I were
beaten at home, there was absolutely nothing that I could do
about it, but if I were beaten in the streets, I had a chance to
fight and defend myself.
Which viewpoint does Wright convey in the excerpt?
Even as a young boy, Richard has nowhere to turn
for help.
He understands that his mother is forcing him to
grow up and be a man too soon.
He knows that he has no choice but to face the gang
of boys and his fear.
Richard feels powerless against his mother's
dominance and knows he must obey her.