Question

What theme of "The Black Ball" depends on having a Modernist narrator - a narrator with the power to change his society?

Answer 1

Answer:

The themes “care for the next generation gives a person courage to work for change” and “American ideas of freedom and equality should apply to all people, regardless of the color of their skin” are two major themes of “The Black Ball” that are dependent upon having a Modernist narrator. Both of these themes challenge some of the accepted inequalities in society at the time and demand change, two aspects of Modernism. Having a Modernist narrator who is at odds with society and these accepted inequalities allows for the story to progress by having the narrator challenge these beliefs rather than accepting his fate. These ideas are very representative of Modernist beliefs and the narrators decisions to change the course of his life and his son's life wouldn’t be possible without a Modernist narrator with the power to change his society.

Explanation:

This question and answer were part of a study guide I used to prepare for an exam in English so this is just my best understanding of the question. I hope it helps! :)

Answer 2

The theme of "The Black Ball" that depends on having a Modernist narrator is that it is not good to be behind the black ball (eight ball) in pool, and in life, African Americans needed to play a game like pool, just to stay out of trouble. The ball is white represents who had a nice life and had the power because whites had all the power, yet with the changing times, the ball’s color might change too, just like the discrimination because Caucasians and African Americans.